Sample records for cu fe mg

The three-layer-sandwich targets of 24Mg-Fe-Cu needed to be prepared in the physics experiment. The middle layers are thin ferromagnetic Fe layers of about 3.2 mg/cm2. The recoil stopper layers are thick crystallized and defect-free Cu layers of about 15 mg/cm2. The thickness of the 24Mg target layers is about 300 μg/cm2, and the uniformity should be better than 90%.

The structural and magnetic properties of thin Ni films grown on Cu/Fe/MgO(001) and Cu/MgO(001) buffer layers are investigated and compared to those grown on Cu/Si(001). The use of an Fe seed layer a few monolayers thick leads to the epitaxial growth of high surface quality Cu(001) buffer layers on MgO(001), while Cu growth on the bare MgO(001) substrate results in polycrystalline films. Magneto-optic Kerr effect magnetometry shows that Ni films grown on Cu/Fe/MgO(001) exhibit dominant perpendicular magnetic anisotropy up to ∼90 Å, which is similar to that of Ni films grown on Cu/Si(001). The polycrystalline Ni films also exhibit perpendicular magnetic remanence, but with a dominant in-plane magnetization component.

The structural and magnetic properties of thin Ni films grown on Cu/Fe/MgO(001) and Cu/MgO(001) buffer layers are investigated and compared to those grown on Cu/Si(001). The use of an Fe seed layer a few monolayers thick leads to the epitaxial growth of high surface quality Cu(001) buffer layers on MgO(001), while Cu growth on the bare MgO(001) substrate results in polycrystalline films. Magneto-optic Kerr effect magnetometry shows that Ni films grown on Cu/Fe/MgO(001) exhibit dominant perpendicular magnetic anisotropy up to {approx}90 A, which is similar to that of Ni films grown on Cu/Si(001). The polycrystalline Ni films also exhibit perpendicular magnetic remanence, but with a dominant in-plane magnetization component.

Full Text Available The aim of this study was to determine Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn content of ass’s milk. Twenty four individual milk samples were collected from 4 lactating asses. During the experi- mental period milk samples were collected every 3 weeks interval, using a milking machine; asses were housed with the foals that were separated from the jennets 3 hours before milking. Milk was analysed for Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn content by atomic absorption spectrometry. The concentration mean (±SD of Ca Mg, Zn, Fe, and Cu were respectively 334.61±39.80, 58.46±8.43, 1.99±0.51, 1.15±0.52, 0.16±0.06 mg/kg. Mn was found only at trace level. Iron content of ass’s milk was the most variable ranging from 0.43 to 1.88 mg/kg. Correlation coefficients were positive and significant between Ca and Mg (r=0.63, Zn and Mg (r=0.45, Zn and Fe (r=0.49 and Zn and Cu (r=0.50. In this study, except for Fe, mean concentration of Ca, Mg, Zn, and Cu in ass’s milk was similar to those reported in literature for human milk.

of MFe2O4 ferrites are critically discussed. No significant with respect to ferrite formation rates was observed in open and closed containers used here. In the Fe2O3/ZnO system, a single ferrite phase can be synthesized but in other systems no significant amounts of ferrites are formed by high......Mechanical alloying processes in four Fe2O3MO (M: Zn, Ni, Cu, Mg) systems by high-energy ball milling from simple oxide powder mixtures in both open and closed tungsten carbide containers have been investigated by x-ray powder diffraction and Mossbauer spectroscopy. Mechanisms for the formation......-energy ball milling under the conditions used here. The dominant alloying mechanism depends on the interdiffusion at relatively low temperatures. The experimental results may also be explained by the crystal structures of the reactants and the ferrites....

A simple and fast method of the analysis of green coffee infusions was developed to measure total concentrations of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg and Mn by high resolution-continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The precision of the method was within 1-8%, while the accuracy was within -1% to 2%. The method was used to the analysis of infusions of twelve green coffees of different geographical origin. It was found that Ca and Mg were leached the easiest, i.e., on average 75% and 70%, respectively. As compared to the mug coffee preparation, the rate of the extraction of elements was increased when infusions were prepared using dripper or Turkish coffee preparation methods. Additionally, it was established that the antioxidant activity of green coffee infusions prepared using the mug coffee preparation was high, 75% on average, and positively correlated with the total content of phenolic compounds and the concentration of Ca in the brew.

The mesoporous Cu/Mg/Fe layered double hydroxide (Cu/Mg/Fe-LDH) with carbonate intercalation was synthesized and used for the removal of arsenate from aqueous solutions.The Cu/Mg/Fe-LDH was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry,X-ray diffraction crystallography,scanning electron microscopy,X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller.Effects of various physico-chemical parameters such as pH,adsorbent dosage,contact time and initial arsenate concentration on the adsorption of arsenate onto Cu/Mg/Fe-LDH were investigated.Results showed that it was efficient for the removal of arsenate,and the removal efficiency of arsenate increased with the increment of the adsorbent dosage,while the arsenate adsorption capacity decreased with increase of initial pH from 3 to 11.The adsorption isotherms can be well described by the Langmuir model with R2 ＞ 0.99.Its adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo second-order kinetic model.Coexisting ions such as HPO42-,CO32-,SO42-and NO3-could compete with arsenate for adsorption sites on the Cu/Mg/Fe-LDH.The adsorption of arsenate on the adsorbent can be mainly attributed to the ion exchange process.It was found that the synthesized Cu/Mg/Fe-LDH can reduce the arsenate concentration down to a final level of ＜ 10 μg/L under the experimental conditions,and makes it a potential material for the decontamination of arsenate polluted water.

Full Text Available Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR spectra of M3Fe4V6O24 (M = Cu, Zn, Mg and Mn compounds in high temperature range (293 K to 493 K have been investigated. The role of magnetic (Cu, Mn and non-magnetic (Zn, Mg ions in M3Fe4V6O24 structure in formation of magnetic resonance spectra was studied. Temperature dependence of EPR parameters: resonance field, linewidth and integrated intensity were examined. Similarities and differences in temperature behavior of these parameters has been discussed in terms of different relaxation mechanisms and magnetic interactions in the spin systems. An important role of additional magnetic ions (M = Mn or Cu in the M3Fe4V6O24 structure has been identified and its consequences considered.

Al-20Si-5Fe-3Cu-lMg alloy was synthesized by the spray atomization and deposition technique. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the spray deposited hypereutectic Al-Si alloy were studied using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) and HREM (High-resolution Electron Microscope), DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry), microhardness measurement, and tensile tests. The effects of Mn on the microstructural evolution of the highsilicon aluminum alloy after extrusion and heat treatment have been examined. The results show that two kinds of phases, i.e. S (Al2CuMg) and σ(Al5Cu6Mg2), precipitated from matrix and improved the tensile strength of the alloy efficiently at both the ambient and elevated temperatures (300℃). The tensile test results indicate that the spray-deposited Al-20Si-SFe-3Cu-1Mg alloy has better strength than the powder metallurgy processed Al-20Si-3Cu-1Mg alloy at elevated temperature.

We predict large magnetoresistance (MR) and spin transfer torque (STT) in antiferromagnetic Fe |MgO |FeMn |Cu tunnel junctions based on first-principles scattering theory. MR as large as ˜100 % is found in one junction. Magnetic dynamic simulations show that STT acting on the antiferromagnetic order parameter dominates the spin dynamics, and an electronic bias of order 10-1mV and current density of order 105Acm-2 can switches a junction of three-layer MgO, they are about one order smaller than that in Fe |MgO |Fe junction with the same barrier thickness, respectively. The multiple scattering in the antiferromagnetic region is considered to be responsible for the enhanced spin torque and smaller switching current density.

Single-core MgB2 wires and tapes have been made by the powder-in-tube (PIT) method using commercial MgB2 powder (Alfa Aesar). Composites have been made using the two-axial rolling process in Cu and/or Fe/Cu sheaths. Alternative deformations by wire drawing, rotary swaging and cold isostatic pressing have been applied to PIT wires and tapes. Current-voltage characteristics and transport current densities in the self-field and in the external field were measured. It was found that the grain connectivity of ex situ MgB2 is affected by the applied sheath and the mode of deformation. Two-axial rolling has generated the highest powder density resulting in the best grain connectivity. The highest transport current densities of 8700 A cm-2 and 55 830 A cm-2 were measured for Cu and Fe/Cu sheathed square wires, respectively. Cold isostatic pressing at 1.5 GPa has increased current density and n-exponent, which suggests an improvement in grain connectivity. It was found that the external pressure improves the inter-grain connectivity but decreases the pinning in MgB2 cores.

The magnetic properties and microstructure of FePt films grown on MoC layer and MoC/(Mg-X)O (X=Cu, Ni, Co) combined intermediate layers were studied. The (Mg-X)O (X=Cu, Ni, Co) layer with thickness of 5 nm was deposited on CrRu seed layer at 395 °C. The CrRu (200) texture was enhanced which may due to well grains growth in specific orientation and small lattice mismatch with (Mg-X)O (X=Cu, Ni, Co). Finally, the FePt/MoC layers were deposited on (Mg-X)O layer at 425 °C. Using MoC/MgCuO combined intermediate layers, the rocking width of FePt (001) and CrRu (200) diffraction peak were changed from 7.1° to 6.1°, and 5.7° to 3.8°, respectively. For MoC/MgCoO dual intermediate layers, the rocking width of FePt (001) and CrRu (200) diffraction peak were 6.7° and 4.1°. The FePt/MoC/MgCoO film illustrates perpendicular magnetic anisotropy with out-of plane coercivity of 9.3 kOe which is higher than FePt film deposited on MoC layer (8.5 kOe) and the in-plane loops is linear. From microstructure, the FePt grains were more separated on MoC/(Mg-X)O (X=Cu, Ni, Co) combined intermediate layers.

MgB2/Fe wires have been produced by the powder-in-tube technique following the in situ route. The influence of low amounts of Cu or Ag additions into the precursor powder mixture on the kinetics of MgB2 formation was studied in situ by means of synchrotron x-ray diffraction during heat-treatments......MgB2/Fe wires have been produced by the powder-in-tube technique following the in situ route. The influence of low amounts of Cu or Ag additions into the precursor powder mixture on the kinetics of MgB2 formation was studied in situ by means of synchrotron x-ray diffraction during heat......-treatments at 504 and 547 degrees C. Both Cu and Ag additions result in a significant increase of the MgB2 formation rate. A thin, discontinuous Fe2B layer was formed at the interface between the MgB2 core and the Fe sheath. At the end of the heat-treatment, Cu and Ag were found in submicrometer-sized particles...

Despite intensive research into support substrates for the dispersal of nanoparticles and their applications, there has been a lack of general methods to produce metal oxide hollow substrates supporting a wide range of metal and metal oxides. Herein, a synthetic protocol for the preparation of CuO hollow structure-supported MOx (M = Zn, Fe, Ni, Sn, Mn, Co, Ce, Mg, and Ag) and noble metals (Pt and Au) with the desired properties and shell structure, such as CuO/Fe2O3, CuO/ZnO, CuO/SnO2, CuO/MgO, CuO/NiO, CuO/Mn2O3, CuO/CoO, CuO/CeO2, CuO/Ag2O, CuO/Pt, CuO/Au hollow cubes, CuO/ZnO double-shell hollow cubes, CuO/SnO2 double-shell hollow octahedra, CuO/SnO2/Fe2O3 and CuO/Mn2O3/NiO double-shell hollow cubes, was developed based on controlled calcination and etching. These hybrid hollow structures were employed not only as support substrates but also as active constituents for catalytic reactions. As an example, we demonstrated that CuO/ZnO hollow cubes are remarkably efficient in converting solid chitin biomass to liquid chemicals in methanol. In addition, CuO/ZnO double-shell hollow cubes were highly effective in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol in the presence of H2O2, whereas CuO/Pt and CuO/Au hollow cubes promoted the oxidation of benzyl alcohol in pure O2. The strategy developed in this work extends the controllable fabrication of high-quality CuO hollow structure-supported nanoparticles using various compositions and shell structures, paving the way to the exploration and systematic comparison of these materials in a wider range of applications.

The major elements and trace metals were analysed from nussel tissue and the seawater taken from three depths (0, 5 and 9 meters) from the culture site. Range of variation in Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn were 226-399; 708-1329; 0.005-0.084; BDL-0...

The microstructures of a severely deformed Al-Zn-Mg-Cu (AA7136) alloy have been characterized carefully using transmission electron microscopy and three-dimensional atom probe analysis. The Fe-rich intermetallic particles are predominantly Al{sub 13}Fe{sub 4} type in the as-extruded alloy. Significantly, equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP) at 200 deg. C refines Fe-rich particles from {approx}1 to 2 {mu}m to as small as {approx}50 nm after 4 passes processing, and effectively narrow down their size distribution with the increase of number of ECAP passes. In addition, small Fe-rich particles evolve into spherical morphology and are in a more uniform distribution. The formations of Fe-rich phases in AA7136, the kinetic and thermodynamic effects in relation to the refinement of Fe-rich particles and their morphology evolution during ECAP processing are discussed.

Full Text Available The United Nations General Assembly declared the year 2004 the International Year of Rice and the concept "Rice is life". The largest nutritional problems occurring globally are protein-energy malnutrition, and Ca, Fe, I, Zn, and vitamin A deficiency. In this report, 49 rice samples (Oryza sativa L. were digested by dry ashing in order to determine As, Cd, Cr, and Pb by ETA-AAS; while Ca, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mo, Mn, Na, Ni, and Zn were determined by FAAS; and Hg by CV-AAS using microwave-assisted decomposition. The following concentration ranges were obtained for Ca (9.1-15 mg/100 g, Cd (2.30-4.12 µg/kg, Co (41-60 µg/kg, Cu (1.33-180 mg/kg, Fe (4.41-7.15 mg/kg, K (167-217 mg/100 g, Mg (45-121 mg/100 g, Mo (0.52-0.97 mg/kg, Mn (5.45-25.4 mg/kg, Na (0.95-2.50 mg/100g, Ni (0.53-0.72 mg/kg, and Zn (5.86-12.6 mg/kg. Mean recoveries of elements from fortified rice were: 87±12% for As, 95.3±8.9% for Ca, 106.2±7.7% for Cd, 103.3±6.5% for Co, 89.4±8.1% for Cr, 99.3±4.6% for Cu, 103±10% for Fe, 96.3±9.3% for Hg, 95.4±12% for K, 98.3±8.0% for Mg, 93.4±7.8% for Mo, 95.3±9.9% for Mn, 89±12% for Na, 90.3±9.7% for Ni, 91.2±5.5% for Pb and 92.0±9.4% for Zn. The concentrations of the minerals and microelements studied fall within the typical range of rice grown around the world. Potassium was the most abundant mineral, followed by Mg and Ca; among microelements, the concentrations of Cu, Fe, Mo, Mn, Na, and Zn in rice were outstanding. It was also found that the milling process highly affects the K, Mg, Mn, Na, and Zn concentrations, while it has little influence on Ca, Co, Cu, and Fe. On the other hand, there is a loss of Ca, Fe, and Mn during the parboiling process. Recent studies have shown the potential to exploit the genetic variation of rice seeds with regard to the concentration of some minerals (Ca, Fe, Zn, etc. without affecting yield or adding new traits. All rice samples tested showed lower levels of As, Cd, Hg, and Pb in comparison

This paper studies the effects of adding nano MgO powder on Nd21 Pr7Gd4Fe66.02Cu0.2Al0.7B1.08 magnet. Research by SEM and EDS analysis show. nano powder MgO is mainly in the grain boundary of magnets. By XRD analysis and adding 0.2% MgO magnets main crystal grain(006)orientation are well developed with bet-ter crystal orientation. The Nd21 Pr7Gd4Fe66.02Cu0.2Al0.7B1.08 magnet of adding 0.2% MgO has the highest residual magnetic flux density of 1.204 T, adding 0.4% MgO magnet has the highest coercivity of 11.71 KA m-1;mag-net adding MgO corrosion resistance is better than that without the addition of MgO magnet.%研究了添加纳米粉MgO对Nd21Pr7Gd4Fe66.02Cu0.2Al0.7B1.08磁体的影响。通过扫描电镜能谱研究分析可知，纳米粉MgO主要分布于磁体的晶界相当中。通过XRD分析可知：添加w（MgO）=0.2%的纳米粉MgO，磁体主晶粒（006）晶向晶粒发育良好，晶粒取向度较好；添加w（MgO）=0.2%的纳米粉MgO，磁体Nd21Pr7Gd4Fe66.02Cu0.2Al0.7B1.08有最高的剩磁（1.204 T）；添加w（MgO）=0.4%纳米粉MgO，磁体Nd21Pr7Gd4Fe66.02Cu0.2Al0.7B1.08有最高的矫顽力（11.70 kA/m）；添加MgO的磁体比未添加MgO的磁体耐腐蚀性要好。

The microstructure and humidity sensitivity of Cu{sub x}Zn{sub 1-x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrites (where x varies from 0 to 1 mol% in steps of 0.2) doped with 0.05 and 0.1 wt% of magnesium chloride (MgCl{sub 2}) prepared by standard ceramic route have been studied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicates the formation of ferrite. Infrared (IR) transmission spectra show the presence of chlorine band, octahedral and tetrahedral group complexes. Scanning electron micrographs reveal the presence of granulation and pores, which play an important role in determining the humidity sensitivity. Microhardness, bulk density, porosity and water absorption properties were studied. It was found that the humidity sensitivity depends on composition and porosity. Dependence of electrical resistivity on composition, temperature and humidity was also investigated. Electrical resistivity decreases with the increase of temperature, humidity and molar weight of copper oxide (CuO) content. The resistivity of the 0.05 wt% MgCl{sub 2} doped Cu{sub x}Zn{sub 1-x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrite is more dependent on humidity. The resistance-humidity characteristics was examined. The good results concerning humidity sensitivity were obtained for 0.05 wt% MgCl{sub 2} doped ferrites except CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ferrite doped with 0.05 and 0.1 wt% MgCl{sub 2}. (Abstract Copyright [2010], Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Analysis of industrial lubricants is widely used for monitoring and predicting maintenance requirements in a broad range of mechanical systems. Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy has been used to evaluate the potentiality of the technique for the determination of metals in lubricating oils. Prior to quantitative analysis, the LIBS system was calibrated using standard samples containing the elements investigated (Cu, Cr, Fe, Pb, Mo and Mg). This study presents the usefulness of multivariate statistical techniques for evaluation and interpretation of large complex data sets in order to get more information about concentration of metals in oils lubricants is related to engine wear. (author)

In this paper, in order to examine the mechanisms of sonodynamic and photodynamic reactions, the chlorophyllin metal (Chl-M (M=Fe, Mg and Cu)) complexes were irradiated by ultrasound (US) and visible-light (VL), respectively, and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected by the method of Oxidation-Extraction Spectrometry (OES). That is, the 1,5-diphenyl carbazide (DPCI) is oxidized by the generated ROS into 1,5-diphenyl carbazone (DPCO), which can display a various visible absorption around 563 nm wavelength. Besides, some influence parameters on the generation of ROS were also reviewed. The results demonstrated an apparent synergistic effect of Chl-M and ultrasonic or visible-light irradiation for the generation of ROS. Moreover, the quantities of generated ROS increase with the increase of (ultrasonic or visible-light) irradiation time and Chl-M (M=Fe, Mg and Cu) concentration. Finally, several quenchers were used to determine the kind of the generated ROS. It is wished that this paper might offer some valuable references for the study on the sonodynamic therapy (SDT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) mechanisms and the application of Chl-M in tumor treatment.

Spinel ferrite having composition Ni0.5Mg0.3Cu0.2Fe2O4 was prepared by the sol-gel technique at 1473 K. The X-ray diffraction results indicate that the ferrite sample has a cubic spinel-type structure with Fdbar{3}m space group. The electrical properties of the studied sample using complex impedance spectroscopy technique have been investigated in the frequency range 102-107 Hz and in the temperature range 300-500 K. The total conductivity curves for sample are found to obey Jonscher power law ( σ( ω) = σ dc + Aω n ) with an increase in the frequency exponent ( n) as temperature increases. The activation energy deduced from the analysis of the conductivity curves matches very well with the value estimated from the relaxation time, indicating that relaxation process and electrical conductivity are attributed to the same defect. Nyquist plots of impedance show semicircle arcs for sample, and an electrical equivalent circuit has been proposed to explain the impedance results. The effect of frequency and temperature on dielectric constant ( ɛ″) and dielectric loss (tan δ) has also been discussed in terms of hopping of charge carriers between Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions.

The concentrations of the essential metals Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, and Zn were determined in 126 specimens of molluscs belonging to five different species: Mytilus chilensis, n=47; Nacella deaurata, n=65; Aulacomya ater, n=4; Fissurella picta, n=4; Acanthina monodon, n=6, collected from the coastline of the Magellan Strait. Significant differences were obtained among the mean metal concentrations in the mollusc species considered. The contribution to the dietary daily intake of these metals for the consumption of one serving of these molluscs was high, especially the contribution to the Fe intake for the consumption of N. deaurata. Some significant differences were observed among the mean concentrations for the studied metals according to the zone of sampling. The influence of the zone of sampling on the mean concentration of metals in N. deaurata was higher than in M. chilensis. The application of lineal discriminant analysis (LDA) made it possible to differentiate statistically between specimens according to the mollusc species. Within the each mollusc species, the LDA helped to identify specimens according to the zone of sampling and weight/length ratio.

An Al–Mg–Si–Cu–Fe alloy was solid-solution treated at 560°C for 3 h and then cooled by water quenching or furnace cooling. The alloy samples which underwent cooling by these two methods were rolled at different temperatures. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the rolled alloys were investigated by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and tensile testing. For the water-quenched alloys, the peak tensile strength and elongation occurred at a rolling temperature of 180°C. For the furnace-cooled alloys, the tensile strength decreased initially, until the rolling temperature of 420°C, and then increased;the elongation increased consistently with increasing rolling temperature. The effects of grain boundary hardening and dislocation hardening on the mechanical properties of these rolled alloys decreased with increases in rolling temperature. The mechanical properties of the 180°C rolling water-quenched alloy were also improved by the presence ofβ″phase. Above 420°C, the effect of solid-solution hardening on the mechanical properties of the rolled alloys increased with increases in rolling temperature.

The phase relations in the systems In 2O 3Ga 2MgO 4MgO at 1300°C, In 2O 3Fe 2NiO 4NiO at 1200°C, In 2O 3Ga 2NiO 4NiO at 1200°C, In 2O 3Cr 2NiO 4NiO at 1200°C, In 2O 3Cr 2CoO 4CoO at 1200°C, and In 2O 3Cr 2CuO 4CuO at 1000°C were determined by classical quenching methods. In the system In 2O 3Ga 2MgO 4MgO there exist two ternary phases, namely, InGaO 3(MgO) with the YbFe 2O 4-type crystal structure and InGaO 3(MgO) 2 with the InFeO 3(ZnO) 2-type crystal structure. In the system In 2O 3 A2NiO 4NiO ( A = Fe, Ga, or Cr), there is a spinel solid-solution between In ANiO 4 and A2NiO 4. There is no ternary compound in the systems In 2O 3Cr 2CoO 4CoO and In 2O 3Cr 2CuO 4CuO, respectively. The classification of the phase relations in the system In 2O 3 A2BO 4 BO ( A: Fe, Ga, or Cr; B: Mg, Co, Ni, Cu, or Zn) is made in terms of the crystal structure of the ternary In ABO 4 compound.

Wild vegetables, those edible among naturally grown vegetables, have been reported to contain many bioactive substances, dietary fibers, vitamins, and minerals. The purpose of this study is to examine the six elements of the wild vegetables frequently consumed by Koreans and assess the element intakes through them. Contents of six kinds of elements (Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn) in 11 wild vegetables were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Using these analysis data, the 6-element intakes from the wild vegetables were evaluated in healthy Korean adults aged 19-64 years from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010-2011). Sedum and shepherd's purse contained over 100 mg of Ca in 100 g of their edible portion. The Mg content per 100 g of the 11 wild vegetables ranged from 12.1 mg to 43.4 mg. The wild vegetable with the highest mineral content per 100 g was sedum for Ca, spinach for Mg, shepherd's purse for Fe, spinach for Zn, bracken for Cu, and fragrant edible wild aster for Mn. The element intakes from the 11 wild vegetables compared with dietary reference intakes in the healthy Koreans were 1.0 % for Ca, 2.1 % for Mg, 5.3 % for Fe, 1.4 % for Zn, 0.3 % for Cu, and 1.8 % for Mn. Considering the low intake ratio (1.2 %) of the wild vegetable to total food intake, wild vegetables may contribute to some element intakes. Our results show the nutritional value of the wild vegetables in the aspect of mineral nutrition; however, further research is needed to evaluate the bioavailability of various elements in wild vegetables.

Magnesium-based bulk metallic glasses (BMG) have potential in applications ranging from biomedical to sports equipment and the Mg-Cu-Y system offers some of the most promising alloys. Phase relations and ternary solubility of the binary and ternary compounds of this system have been experimentally investigated. The Isothermal section of Mg-Cu-Y system at 673 K for the entire composition range has been constructed. Phase relations in the Cu-rich (>66 at.% Cu) region of the Mg-Cu-Y system has been determined for the first time. The homogeneity range of three ternary compounds has been determined. Solidifications behavior of several key alloys have been discussed based on the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) experiments and thermodynamic calculations. Extensive analysis of the DSC curves has been carried out to relate them to the corresponding phase transformation reactions and temperatures. Some of the most promising metallic glass forming regions have been analyzed using thermodynamic calculations.

Full Text Available Significant changes in the levels of the potential prooxidant Cu (increase and the antioxidant Zn (decrease in plasma were revealed in children having bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD complicated by pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH and chronic cor pulmonale (CCP when compared with the control. The Zn / Cu ratio in the blood plasma of patients with BPD, especially in CCP, was found to be lower than in the control group (p<0.001. This could indicate the activation of the prooxidant processes; simultaneously, the total antioxidant status (AOS decreased. No significant increase in the intracellular free (“ionized” (i form of magnesium (iMg was found; in fact, the concentration of iFe in all the patient groups was higher than in the control. An increase in the iCu and iZn levels (nonprotein-bound was observed in the blood cells of the affected children. A significant increase in the glutathione peroxidase activity in the CCP patients may indicate an accumulation of organic peroxides, and partially compensate for the lesser activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD and other antioxidants. The Zn / Cu and iZn/ iCu ratios were reduced in patients with CCP when compared with patients with PD without CCP.

Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy is a favorable choice for aerospace applications requiring good combination of strength and toughness,which is greatly influenced by the coarse intermetallic particles. The evolution of intermetallic particles in an Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy during heat treatment was studied by field emission gun scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM) and X-ray diffractometry(XRD).The results show that there are lamellar eutectic structure (α(Al)+Mg(Zn,Al,Cu)2) and Al7Cu2Fe particles in the solidified structure.The Al7Cu2Fe particles are embedded in the eutectic structure. The content of eutectic structure decreases with the increase of holding time and disappears after 24 h. The size and morphology of Al7Cu2Fe particles exhibit no change during the heat treatment. It is found that the Al2CuMg phase is formed during the treatment at 460 ℃. A transformation process from the primary eutectic phase Mg(Zn,Al,Cu)2 to Al2CuMg is observed, and the transformation mechanism and kinetics are analyzed. The Al2CuMg constituents form in the primary Mg(Zn,Al,Cu)2 phase, and grow along the eutectic microstructure.

Isolated Fe-57 atoms were studied in MgO single-crystals by emission Mossbauer spectroscopy following implantation of Mn-57 decaying to Fe-57. Four Mossbauer spectral components were found corresponding to different Fe lattice positions and/or charge states. Two components represent Fe atoms substituting Mg as Fe2+ and Fe3+, respectively; a third component is due to Fe in a strongly implantation-induced disturbed region. The fourth component, which is the focus of this paper, can be assigned to Fe at an interstitial site. Comparison of its measured isomer shift with ab initio calculations suggests that the interstitial Fe is located on, or close to, the face of the rock-salt MgO structure. To harmonize such an assignment with the measured near-zero quadrupole interaction a local motion process (cage motion) of the Fe has to be stipulated. The relation of such a local motion as a starting point for long range diffusion is discussed.

The Magneto-electric composites (x) Mg0.2Cu0.3Zn0.5Fe2O4 + (1-x) Ba0.8Zr0.2TiO3 (x=15%,30%,45%) were synthesized by sintering mixtures of highly ferroelectric Ba0.8Zr0.2TiO3 (BZT) and highly magneto-strictive component Mg0.2Cu0.3Zn0.5Fe2O4 (MCZF). The presences of two phases in magneto-electric composites were probed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The peaks observed in the XRD spectrum indicated spinel cubic structure for MCZF ferrite and tetragonal perovskite structure for BZT and, both spinel and pervoskite structures for synthesized composites. Surface morphology of the samples has been investigated using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). Frequency dependent dielectric properties of synthesized composites were measured from 100 Hz to 1 MHz at RT using HIOKI LCR HI-TESTER. The dielectric dispersion is observed at lower frequencies for the synthesized ME composites. The magnetic properties of synthesized composites were analyzed using a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM). It is observed that the values of saturation magnetization increases along with the ferrite content.

Highlights: • Superparamagnetic quaternary nanoferrite (M{sub 0.25}Cu{sub 0.25}Mg{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4,} where M = Mn, Zn, Co, Ni) were obtained. • C, O, H and metals were observed by XPS analysis. • Phases purity were confirmed by XRD diffraction and crystallite size (3–10 nm) were determind. - Abstract: We report the synthesis of M{sub 0.25}Cu{sub 0.25}Mg{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (where M = Mn, Zn, Co, Ni) nanoparticles using the coprecipitation method in the presence of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as the in-situ surfactant. The crystalline structure and surface morphology were examined by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and it was established that the average diameter of the magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) is in the range of 3–10 nm. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) show that the MNPs are activated by the hydrophilic groups of the surfactant, which coat them and enhance their stability. The vibrating sample magnetometry measurements show the superparamagnetic behavior of the nanoparticles. Due to their small crystallite size, which implies large surface area, and their functionalization with organic groups, the obtained nanoparticles could have medical and catalytic applications.

The Particulate nano-composites of ferrite and ferroelectric phases having the general formula (x) Mg0.25Cu0.25Zn0.5Fe2O4 + (1-x) BaTiO3 (x=15%, 30% and 45%) were synthesized by sintering mixtures of highly ferroelectric BaTiO3 (BT) and highly magneto-strictive magnetic component Mg0.25Cu0.25Zn0.5Fe2O4(MCZF). The presence of constituent phases of ferrite, ferroelectric and their composites were probed and confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. Surface morphology of the samples has been investigated using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). The variation of dielectric constant and dissipation factor as a function of frequency from 100 Hz to 1 MHz at room temperature were carried out using a Hioki LCR Hi-Tester. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss were found to decrease rapidly in the low frequency region and became almost constant in the high frequency region. The electrical conductivity deduced from the measured dielectric data has been thoroughly analyzed and found that the conduction mechanism in these composites is in conformity with small polaron hopping model. The ferroelectric properties of synthesized magneto-electric nano-composites were measured using P-E loop tracer.

Ultrathin epitaxial Fe films on Cu(1 0 0) with perpendicular magnetization have been used as templates for the preparation of FCC Fe/Cu/Fe trilayers. The magnetic anisotropy and the coupling of these films have been studied by in-situ magneto optical Kerr effect measurements and Kerr microscopy. The magnetic coupling of both Fe layers is found to be dominated by magnetostatic interaction. Adsorbate-induced spin reorientation in the top layer also causes spin reorientation in the bottom layer. The governing role of the Fe-vacuum interface for the magnetism of the whole trilayer is demonstrated.

It has been suggested in the literature that the (Fe/alpha) abundance ratio may be used as a chronometer, due to a delay in this ratio reaching its solar value as predicted by galactic chemical evolution models. Using grids of photoionization models along a sequence of the (Fe/Mg) abundance ratio vs.\\ metallicity with time in a giant elliptical starburst scenario, we investigate the relationship between the (Fe/Mg) abundance ratio and the FeII/MgII emission line flux ratio under the assumption that these lines originate in photoionized clouds within the broad emission line regions of quasars.

Very high magnetoimpedance (MI) measured at frequencies up to 1.8 GHz in single and multilayered thin films with composition Fe{sub 73.5}Cu{sub 1}Nb{sub 3}Si{sub 13.5}B{sub 9} and (Fe{sub 73.5}Cu{sub 1}Nb{sub 3}Si{sub 13.5}B{sub 9}+Cu) are reported. The magnetic properties of both systems are also compared. MI ratio as high as 300% for the multilayered samples were obtained.

Three age-hardenable Al-Cu-Mg alloys with different Cu/Mg ratios were studied by means of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and Vickers hardness as a function of the artificial ageing time at 175 C. Complementary information on the decomposition sequence was obtained by means of differential scanning calorimetry. The results are discussed in terms of the different structures that are formed during the precipitation sequence of the supersaturated solid solution. (copyright 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Limited data are available on phase equilibria of the multicomponent slag system at the oxygen partial pressures used in the copper smelting, converting, and slag-cleaning processes. Recently, experimental procedures have been developed and have been applied successfully to characterize several complex industrial slags. The experimental procedures involve high-temperature equilibration on a substrate and quenching followed by electron probe X-ray microanalysis. This technique has been used to construct the liquidus for the “Cu2O”-“FeO”-SiO2-based slags with 2 wt pct of CaO, 0.5 wt pct of MgO, and 4.0 wt pct of Al2O3 at controlled oxygen partial pressures in equilibrium with metallic copper. The selected ranges of compositions and temperatures are directly relevant to the copper slag-cleaning processes. The new experimental equilibrium results are presented in the form of ternary sections and as a liquidus temperature vs Fe/SiO2 weight ratio diagram. The experimental results are compared with the FactSage thermodynamic model calculations.

By means of Vickers-hardness and electrical conductivity measurements, DSC tests and TEM analyses, the effect of different pre-aging treatments on precipitation characteristic of the Al- 1.29Mg- 1.22Si-0.68Cu-0.69Mn-0.3Fe-0.2Fe-0.1 Ti (mass fraction, %) alloy during subsequent artificial aging was investigated. The results indicate that with increasing pre-aging time from 2.5 min to 10 min at 170 ℃, the number of formedβ" nuclei increases, resulting in promoting artificial aging kinetics and enhancing peak hardness. The hardness of pre-aged alloy reduces within lower temperature range of non-isothermal aging and increases in early stage of isothermal aging at 170 ℃. The size and density of clusters in pre-aged samples determine the hardenability in early stage of artificial aging. Pre-aging has dual mechanisms: namely, clusters (β" nuclei) formed by pre-aging can inhibit the precipitation of GP zones during natural aging, and can quicken the precipitation of β" phase in the early stage of subsequent artificial aging.

The mechanisms governing secondary ageing (structural transformations occurring at low temperature after a heat treatment at higher temperature) were investigated by combined measurements of positron lifetimes, Vickers microhardness measurements and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) on a laboratory alloy (Al-4.5 wt.% Cu-0.56 wt.% Mg). The results show that hardening occurs at a much slower rate than in case of primary ageing at RT. The positron lifetime data suggest that the hardening rate is controlled by slow release of vacancies from Cu-rich clusters formed during the initial high temperature treatment. The hardening stage is concomitant with an increase of the positron lifetime, and has probably the same origin, which is the formation of solute clusters containing vacancies and Mg as essential components. The formation at low temperature of new structures is also demonstrated by DSC. (orig.)

Full Text Available Thermodynamic description of the ternary Cu-Mg-Sn system at its Cu-Mg side is presented. The thermodynamic parameters of the binary sub-systems, Cu-Mg, Cu-Sn and Mg-Sn, are taken from the earlier SGTE-based assessments (modifying the Mg-Sn description slightly and those of the Cu-Mg-Si system are optimized in this study using the experimental thermodynamic and phase equilibrium data. The solution phases of the systems are described with the substitutional solution model and the intermetallic Cu2Mg compound (Laves C15, treated as simple semi-stoichiometric phases of the (A,BpCq type, is described with the twosublattice model. The present ternary description is valid for tin contents up to 45 wt% (xSn≈0.30.

The polarization behavior of the couple Fe/Cu in 100 mg/L nitrobenzene aqueous solution was studied using Evans coupling diagrams. The results indicated that the iron corrosion was limited by both anodic and cathodic half-cell reactions under the neutral conditions and cathodically controlled under the alkaline conditions. Batch experiments were performed to study the effect of solution pH, reaction duration, concentration, type of electrolyte and dissolved oxygen (DO) on the reduction of nitrobenzene by the catalyzed Fe/Cu process. This process proved effective in the pH range of 3 to 11. The conversion efficiency of nitrobenzene at pH ≈ 10.1 was almost the same as that under highly acid conditions (pH ≈ 3). The degradation of nitrobenzene fell into two phases: adsorption and surface reduction, and the influence of adsorption and mass transfer became more extensive with solution concentration. The reduction rate decreased in the presence of DO in the solution, indicating that a need for aeration was eliminated in the catalyzed Fe/Cu process. Accordingly, spending on energy consumption would be reduced. Economic analysis indicated that merely 0.05 kg was required for the treatment of a ton of nitrobenzene-containing water with pH from 3 to 11. The catalyzed Fe/Cu process is cost-effective and of practical value.

Fe-Cu and Fe-Ni nanoscale oxides and their carbonaceous composites (C/Fe-Cu and C/Fe-Ni, 75/25 wt.%; C/Fe-Cu and C/Fe-Ni 95/5 wt.%), made from pyrolysis of sewage sludge, have been evaluated to remove remazol yellow textile dye from aqueous solution. The kinetic and sorption isotherms experimental results were best fitted to the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir-Freundlich isotherm models, which indicates that the sorption mechanism may be chemisorption onto heterogeneous surfaces. Fe-Ni and Fe-Cu nanoscale oxides adsorption capacities were 157.8 mg/g and 117.6 mg/g, resulting in nearly 83% and 70% of dye removal, respectively, using 100 mg/L of initial dyestuff concentration and 10 mg of each material. The adsorption capacities of Fe-Cu, Fe-Ni oxides and C/FCu 75/25%, C/Fe-Ni 75/25% composites provide better results at pH between 3 and 5. In addition, three sorption-desorption cycles using 30% H2O2 solution and distilled water were performed: sorption efficiencies for all materials decreased after each cycle; nevertheless, Fe-Cu and Fe-Ni nanoscale oxides were the best materials for the removal of remazol yellow dye.

We investigate bias voltage effects on the spin-dependent transport properties of Fe/MgAl 2O 4 /Fe(001) magnetic tunneling junctions (MTJs) by comparing them with those of Fe/MgO/Fe(001) MTJs. By means of the nonequilibrium Green's function method and the density functional theory, we calculate bias voltage dependencies of magnetoresistance (MR) ratios in both the MTJs. We find that in both the MTJs, the MR ratio decreases as the bias voltage increases and finally vanishes at a critical bias voltage Vc. We also find that the critical bias voltage Vc of the MgAl 2O 4 -based MTJ is clearly larger than that of the MgO-based MTJ. Since the in-plane lattice constant of the Fe/MgAl 2O 4 /Fe(001) supercell is twice that of the Fe/MgO/Fe(001) one, the Fe electrodes in the MgAl 2O 4 -based MTJs have an identical band structure to that obtained by folding the Fe band structure of the MgO-based MTJs in the Brillouin zone of the in-plane wave vector. We show that such a difference in the Fe band structure is the origin of the difference in the critical bias voltage Vc between the MgAl 2O 4 - and MgO-based MTJs.

Using the first-principles real-space linear muffin-tin orbital method within the atomic sphere approximation (RS-LMTO-ASA) we study hyperfine and local magnetic properties of substituted pure Fe and Fe-Cu clusters in an fcc Cu matrix. Spin and orbital contributions to magnetic moments, hyperfine fields and the Moessbauer isomer shifts at the Fe sites in Fe precipitates and Fe-Cu alloy clusters of sizes up to 60 Fe atoms embedded in the Cu matrix are calculated and the influence of the local environment on these properties is discussed.

Full Text Available Fe-Cu films with low and high Fe : Cu ratio have been produced from the electrolytes with different Fe ion concentrations at a constant deposition potential of −1400 mV versus saturated calomel electrode (SCE by electrodeposition technique onto indium tin oxide (ITO coated conducting glass substrates. It was observed that the variation of Fe ion concentration in the electrolyte had a very strong influence on the compositional, surface morphological, and microstructural properties of the Fe-Cu films. An increase in the Fe ion concentration within the plating bath increased the Fe content, consequently Fe : Cu ratio within the films. The crystallographic structure analysis showed that the Fe-Cu films had a mixture of face-centered cubic (fcc Cu and body centered cubic (bcc α-Fe phases. The average crystallite size decreased with the Fe ion concentration. The film electrodeposited from the electrolyte with low Fe ion concentration exhibited a morphology consisting of dendritic structures. However, the film morphology changed from dendritic structure to cauliflower-like structure at high Fe ion concentration. The surface roughness and grain size were found to decrease significantly with increasing Fe ion concentration in the electrolyte. The significant differences observed in the microstructural and morphological properties caused by the change of Fe ion concentration in the electrolyte were ascribed to the change of Fe : Cu ratio within the films.

Transition metal Cu2+ doped Mg-Zn ferrite [Mg0.5Zn0.5-xCuxFe2O4 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5)] were prepared by sol gel auto combustion (SGAC) method to probe the structural, vibrational and electrical properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern reveals a single-phase cubic spinel structure without the presence of any secondary phase corresponding to other structure. The average particle size of the parent Mg0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 is found to be ~29.8 nm and is found to increase with Cu2+ doping. Progressive reduction in lattice parameter of Mg0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 has been observed due to difference in ionic radii of cations with improved Cu doping. Spinel cubic structure is further confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Small shift in Raman modes towards higher wave number has been observed in doped Mg-Zn ferrites. The permittivity and dielectric loss decreases at lower doping and increases at higher order doping of Cu2+.

Fe-Cu composites with different compositions and morphologies were synthesized by a hydrothermal method combined with precursor thermal transformation. γ-Fe2O3/CuO and α-Fe2O3/CuO were obtained by calcining the Fe and Cu tartrates under air atmosphere at 350 °C and 500 °C, respectively, while Fe3O4/C/Cu was obtained by calcining the tartrate precursor under N2 atmosphere at 500 °C. The Fe3O4/C/Cu composite possessed mesoporous structure and large surface area up to 133 m2 g-1. The Fenton catalytic performance of Fe3O4/C/Cu composite was closely related to the Fe/Cu molar ratio, and only proper amounts of Fe and Cu exhibited a synergistic enhancement in Fenton catalytic activity. Cu inclusion reduced Fe3+ to Fe2+, which accelerated the Fe3+/Fe2+ cycles and favored H2O2 decomposition to produce more hydroxyl radicals for methylene blue (MB) oxidation. Due to the photo-reduction of Fe3+ and Cu2+, the Fenton catalytic performance was greatly improved when amending with visible light irradiation in the Fe3O4/C/Cu-H2O2 system, and MB (100 mg L-1) was nearly removed within 60 min. The Fe3O4/C/Cu composite showed good recyclability and could be conveniently separated by an applied magnetic field. Compared with conventional methods for mesoporous composite construction, the thermolysis method using mixed metal tartrates as precursors has the advantages of easy preparation and low cost. This strategy provides a facile, cheap and green method for the synthesis of mesoporous composites as excellent Fenton-like catalysts, without any additional reductants or organic surfactants.

We have grown FCC-Fe/Cu multilayers by molecular beam epitaxy method. The structural and magnetic properties were studied by RHEED, XRD and magnetoresistance measurement (MR). The RHEED images confirmed that Fe/Cu multilayers were epitaxially grown on Cu(1 0 0). Furthermore, a clear negative MR was observed. The buffer layer condition for MR effect will be discussed.

Iron based catalysts generally have the advantage of the easily operated magnetically recovery from application sites. In the present work, paramagnetic iron and copper core-shell nanoparticles having the iron fractions (X(Fe) = Fe/(Cu+Fe)) of 0.33-1.0 were prepared and characterized by in situ synchrotron X-ray absorption and scattering spectroscopy. During the temperature-programmed carbonization (TPC) of Cu(2+)- and Fe(3+)-β-cyclodextrin (CD) complexes, a rapid reduction of Cu(II) occurs at about 453 K together with a growth of the metallic copper (Cu). Iron proceeds in the distinct growth path. At 453-513 K, the Fe(III) → Fe(II) → Fe consecutive reduction is observed. The unreduced Fe(III) (7-13%) is coated on the surfaces of the Fe nanoparticles (as Fe2O3/Fe). Growth of the Fe nanoparticle is inhibited by the surface Fe2O3, while the steady growth in Cu is observed. The Cu has a size range of 14-18 nm in diameter, compared to the small Fe2O3/Fe ones (3-6 nm). Under the UV-visible light irradiation for four hours, methylene blue can be photocatalytically degraded (>90%) by the (Cu-Fe2O3/Fe)@C. The (Cu-Fe2O3/Fe)@C photocatalysts can effectively oxidize dye molecules, providing a promising alternative for dye degradation using solar energy. Recovery of the (Cu-Fe2O3/Fe)@C photocatalysts can be attained by applying external magnetic field to trap the ferromagnetic Cu-Fe2O3/Fe nanoparticles, which suggests an economically attractive process, especially applied in photocatalytic degradation of dye-contaminated wastewater.

The effects of variation of Mg content on microstructures,the tensile properties and the formability of Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloys for automotive body sheets were investigated by means of scan electron microscopy,optical metallographic analysis,tensile and Ericsson tests.The results show that for Al-Mg-Si-Cu aluminium alloys with excessive Si,with an increment of Mg content,the strength enhances,the specific elongation and Erisson values of alloys decrease,and the number of Mg2 Si constituent increases and that of Al(MnFe)Si type constituents reduces.Al-MgSi-Cu aluminium alloys with excessive Si for automotive body sheets can present obviously the paint bake hardenability during the paint bake cycle (I.e.artificial aging at 170 ℃ for 30 min immediately after the solution treatment and quenching).Suitable Mg content should be controlled in the range of 0.8% and 1.2 % (mass fraction).

Highly reliable, fast and cost effective Spectro-photometric methods have been developed for the determination of Mn, Fe & Cu in aluminum master alloys, based on the development of calibration curves being prepared via laboratory standards. The calibration curves are designed so as to induce maximum sensitivity and minimum instrumental error (Mn 1mg/100ml-2mg/100ml, Fe 0.01mg/100ml-0.2mg/100ml and Cu 2mg/100ml-10mg/ 100ml). The developed Spectro-photometric methods produce accurate results while analyzing Mn, Fe and Cu in certified reference materials. Particularly, these methods are suitable for all types of Al-Mn, Al-Fe and Al-Cu master alloys (5%, 10%, 50% etc. master alloys).Moreover, the sampling practices suggested herein include a reasonable amount of analytical sample, which truly represent the whole lot of a particular master alloy. Successive dilution technique was utilized to meet the calibration curve range. Furthermore, the workout methods were also found suitable for the analysis of said elements in ordinary aluminum alloys. However, it was observed that Cush owed a considerable interference with Fe, the later one may not be accurately measured in the presence of Cu greater than 0.01 %.

We have investigated the magnetic ground state of CuFeAs and CuFeSb by means of 57Fe-Mössbauer spectroscopy, muon spin rotation/relaxation (μ SR ), neutron diffraction, and electronic structure calculations. Both materials share the 111-LiFeAs crystal structure and are closely related to the class of iron-based superconductors. In both materials there is a considerable occupancy of the Cu site by Fe, which leads to ferromagnetic moments, which are magnetically strongly coupled to the regular Fe site magnetism. Our study shows that CuFeAs is close to an antiferromagnetic instability, whereas a ferromagnetic ground state is observed in CuFeSb, supporting theoretical models of anion height driven magnetism.

Nitrate pollution in groundwater shows a great threat to the safety of drinking water. Chemical reduction by zero-valent iron is being considered as a promising technique for nitrate removal from contaminated groundwater. In this paper, Fe0/Pd/Cu nano-composites were prepared by the liquid-phase reduction method, and batch experiments of nitrate reduction by the prepared Fe0/Pd/Cu nano-composites under various operating conditions were carried out. It has been found that nano-Fe0/Pd/Cu composites processed dual functions: catalytic reduction and chemical reduction. The introduction of Pd and Cu not only improved nitrate removal rate, but also reduced the generation of ammonia. Nitrate removal rate was affected by the amount of Fe0/Pd/Cu, initial nitrate concentration, solution pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), reaction temperature, the presence of anions, and organic pollutant. Moreover, nitrate reduction by Fe0/Pd/Cu composites followed the pseudo-first-order reaction kinetics. The removal rate of nitrate and total nitrogen were about 85% and 40.8%, respectively, under the reaction condition of Fe-6.0%Pd-3.0%Cu amount of 0.25 g/L, pH value of 7.1, DO of 0.42 mg/L, and initial nitrate concentration of 100 mg/L. Compared with the previous studies with Fe0 alone or Fe-Cu, nano-Fe-6%Pd-3%Cu composites showed a better selectivity to N2.

The effects of the thickness of MgO and Fe on the electronic structure and magnetic properties of Fe/MgO/Fe magnetic tunnel junction was studied using the first principle method. Two series of models with MgO of different thicknesses: Fe(3)MgO(t)Fe(3) (t=1,3,5,7) and with Fe of varied thicknesses: Fe(t)MgO(3)Fe(t) (t=3,4,5,6,7) were established. Calculated results show that in all the models the magnetic moment of Fe increases at the Fe/MgO interface and surface as compared with that of the inner layers. The magnetic moment of each Fe layer was found to be independent of MgO thicknesses, while the spin-polarization of Fe layer at the interface shows a slight change in function of the MgO thicknesses. The tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) ratio estimated by the Julliere model has the same change tendency as the spin-polarization has, and the largest value is obtained at the MgO thickness of 5 atomic layers. When the Fe thickness increases, the spin-polarization of interface Fe layer follows up an increase with a decrease. The highest TMR value is achieved when the Fe thickness is of 4 atomic layers.

Al62.5Cu25Fe12.5 alloy was prepared by arc melting. It was found that the formation of quasicrystalline phase is related to the condition of annealing, such as temperature and duration. Weight gain of Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystal during the oxidation at 700 and 800 C in dry air was measured by means of thermal balance. The oxidation kinetics showed that the quasicrystal has good oxidation resistance. Only α-Al2O3 was formed on Al62.5Cu25Fe12.5 quasicrystal. The surface morphologies of Al-Cu-Fe quasicrystal after isothermal oxidation for different times were observed.

In this work we report the growth and structural and magnetic characterization of heteroepitaxial Fe O/MgO/Fe junctions. All three layers have been deposited by pulsed laser deposition. Combining High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy and X-ray results, we have obtained for the heterostructure the epitaxy relation MgO(001) [100]//Fe O(001)[100]/MgO(001) [100]/Fe(001)[110]. All interfaces appear very sharp with relatively small root-mean square (rms) roughness, 0.2 nm. The magnetic coupling between Fe O and Fe electrodes is also very small, 0.03 mJ/

The electrochemical reduction characteristics of carbon tetrachloride (CT) were investigated using cyclic voltammetry in this study. In addition, the difference in reduction mechanisms of CT between Master Builders' iron and the catalyzed Fe-Cu process was discussed. The results showed that CT was reduced directly on the surface of copper rather than by atomic hydrogen produced at the cathode in the catalyzed Fe-Cu process. The reduction was realized largely by atomic hydrogen in Master Builders' iron. The entire CT in 350 ml aqueous solution with 320 mg/L was reduced to trichloromethane and dichloromethane in 2.25 h when 100 g of scrap iron with Fe/Cu ratio of 10:1 (w/w) were used. Moreover, the reduction rate slowed with time. CT could be reduced at acidic, neutral and alkaline pH from solution by Fe-Cu bimetallic media, but the mechanisms were different. The degradation rate was not significantly influenced by pH in the catalyzed Fe-Cu process; in Master Builders' iron it clearly increased with decreasing pH. The kinetics of the reductions followed pseudo-first order in both cases. Furthermore, the reductions under acidic conditions proceeded faster than that under the neutral and alkaline conditions. The catalyzed Fe-Cu process was superior to Master Builders' iron in treating CT-containing water and this advantage was particularly noticeable under alkaline conditions. The reduction was investigated in the cathode (Cu) and anode (Fe) compartments respectively, the results showed that the direct reduction pathway played an important role in the reduction by the catalyzed Fe-Cu process. The catalyzed Fe-Cu process is of practical value.

We investigate magnetic correlations and local magnetic moments at finite temperatures of some Fe and Co multilayers on Cu(100) substrates, such as Co(m)Fe(n)Co(m)/Cu(100) and Fe(m)Co(n)Fe(m)/Cu(100). We use an ab initio mean-field theory of magnetic fluctuations for layered materials based on the first-principles local spin-density functional theory implemented through the screened Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker method. We find that the presence of Fe layers in the neighbourhood of a Co layer always leads to a reduction in the magnetic moment of the Co atoms, whereas that of the Fe atoms is enhanced. Of particular interest is the lack of local moment formation on the single fcc-Co layer sandwiched between two fcc-Fe layers. However, a Co layer completely immersed in a Cu environment remains ferromagnetic. The Curie temperature of the Co(m)Fe(n)Co(m)/Cu(100) system oscillates as the Fe layer thickness is increased whereas that of the Fe(m)Co(n)Fe(m)/Cu(100) system increases almost monotonically with Co layer thickness.

The formation of shear bands during plastic deformation of Cu0.50Zr0.50 and Mg0.85Cu0.15 metallic glasses is studied using atomic-scale computer simulations. The atomic interactions are described using realistic many-body potentials within the effective medium theory, and are compared with similar...... simulations using a Lennard-Jones description of the material. The metallic glasses are deformed both in simple shear and in a simulated nanoindentation experiment. Plastic shear localizes into shear bands with a width of approximately 5 nm in CuZr and 8 nm in MgCu. In simple shear, the shear band formation...

Full Text Available Structural stabilities, mechanical properties and electronic structures of Al2Cu, Al2CuMg and MgZn2 intermetallics in Al-Zn-Mg-Cu aluminum alloys were determined from the first-principle calculations by VASP based on the density functional theory. The results show that the cohesive energy (Ecoh decreases in the order MgZn2 > Al2CuMg > Al2Cu, whereas the formation enthalpy (ΔH decreases in the order MgZn2 > Al2Cu > Al2CuMg. Al2Cu can act as a strengthening phase for its ductile and high Young's modulus. The Al2CuMg phase exhibits elastic anisotropy and may act as a crack initiation point. MgZn2 has good plasticity and low melting point, which is the main strengthening phase in the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu aluminum alloys. Metallic bonding mode coexists with a fractional ionic interaction in Al2Cu, Al2CuMg and MgZn2, and that improves the structural stability. In order to improve the alloys' performance further, the generation of MgZn2 phase should be promoted by increasing Zn content while Mg and Cu contents are decreased properly.

The dehydrogenation kinetics of air exposed samples of MgH2/Mg2Cu and MgH2/MgCu2 have been studied with in situ time resolved X-ray powder diffraction. The X-ray setup enabled the recording of full diffraction patterns within 150 s, thereby allowing the study of structural changes combined...... sample was found to be 108 kJ/mol and 160 kJ/mol, respectively. Furthermore, substantially improved dehydrogenation kinetics of MgH2 and resistance towards oxidation of Mg due to the presence of Mg2Cu/MgCu2 are discussed in relation to previous work....

Despite its potential importance for understanding perturbations in the Fe-Cu homeostatic pathways, the natural isotopic variability of these metals in the human body remains unexplored. We measured the Fe, Cu, and Zn isotope compositions of total blood, serum, and red blood cells of ~50 young blood donors by multiple-collector ICP-MS after separation and purification by anion exchange chromatography. Zn is on average 0.2 permil heavier in erythrocytes (δ 66Zn=0.44±0.33 permil) with respect to serum but shows much less overall isotopic variability than Fe and Cu, which indicates that isotope fractionation depends more on redox conditions than on ligand coordination. On average, Fe in erythrocytes (δ 56Fe=-2.59±0.47 permil) is isotopically light by 1-2 permil with respect to serum, whereas Cu in erythrocytes (δ 65Cu=0.56±0.50 permil) is 0.8 percent heavier. Fe and Cu isotope compositions clearly separate erythrocytes of men and women. Fe and Cu from B-type men erythrocytes are visibly more fractionated than all the other blood types. Isotope compositions provide an original method for evaluating metal mass balance and homeostasis. Natural isotope variability shows that the current models of Fe and Cu erythropoiesis, which assume that erythropoiesis is restricted to bone marrow, violate mass balance requirements. It unveils unsuspected major pathways for Fe, with erythropoietic production of isotopically heavy ferritin and hemosiderin, and for Cu, with isotopically light Cu being largely channeled into blood and lymphatic circulation rather than into superoxide dismutase-laden erythrocytes. Iron isotopes provide an intrinsic measuring rod of the erythropoietic yield, while Cu isotopes seem to gauge the relative activity of erythropoiesis and lymphatics.

The evolution of the eutectic structures in the alloys with different copper contents during heat treatment was studied by scanning electron microscopy(SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy(EDS), and differential scanning calorimetry(DSC). The as cast microstructures involve α(Al), eutectic(α(Al) + Mg(Al, Cu, Zn)2) and Al7Cu2Fe. The Al2CuMg particles form during heat treatment. The volume of coarse phases decreases quickly in the initial 12 h during heat treatment. The volume of coarse phases change a little at 400 and 420 ℃. Copper content has a great influence on the evolution of the eutectic. The coarse phases dissolve slowly in alloy with higher copper content.

The Cu clustering stage before the crystallization of Fe-Si-B-Nb-Cu amorphous alloys have been studied by three dimensional atom probe (3DAP) small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and high sensitive differential calorimetry (DSC). Cu clustering occurs prior to the onset of the primary crystalliza......The Cu clustering stage before the crystallization of Fe-Si-B-Nb-Cu amorphous alloys have been studied by three dimensional atom probe (3DAP) small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and high sensitive differential calorimetry (DSC). Cu clustering occurs prior to the onset of the primary...

We report magnetic and superconducting properties of the modified spin-valve system CoOx/Fe1/Cu /Fe2/Cu /Pb . Introduction of a Cu interlayer between Fe2 and Pb layers prevents material interdiffusion process, increases the Fe2/Pb interface transparency, stabilizes and enhances properties of the system. This allowed us to perform a comprehensive study of such heterostructures and to present theoretical description of the superconducting spin-valve effect and of the manifestation of the long-range triplet component of the superconducting condensate.

Ni{sub 0.5-x}Zn{sub 0.5-x}Me{sub 2x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (Me=Cu, Mg, Mn; x=0.00 and 0.10) ferrite powders were prepared by the nitrate-citrate precursor method and investigated as a radar absorbing material (RAM) in a frequency range of 8-12 GHz (X-band). The effects of Cu{sup 2+}, Mn{sup 2+} and Mg{sup 2+} substitution on the microwave-absorbing feature, the complex permeability ({mu}{sub r}*) and the complex permittivity ({epsilon}{sub r}*) were investigated. The microwave-absorbing properties were studied as a function of frequency, Me{sup 2+} content, and thickness of absorber. The adoption of Cu{sup 2+} and Mn{sup 2+} substitution was found to improve the microwave absorption and bandwidth, while the substitution of Mg{sup 2+} was found to reduce the microwave absorption in relation to non-substituted NiZn ferrite.

We have obtained effective medium theory interatomic potential parameters suitable for studying Cu-Mg metallic glasses. We present thermodynamic and structural results from simulations of such glasses over a range of compositions. We have produced low-temperature configurations by cooling from...

Full Text Available Magnesium oxide (MgO is one of the most important raw materials in many branches of industry. Magnesium oxide is a popular refractory raw material because of its high refractoriness and high resistance to basic slags and environment. In many cases, use of MgO is limited by its properties, especially the presence of secondary phases like iron oxides. The amount and distribution of iron oxides can strongly influence the technological properties of MgO and depend on the manufacturing method, particularly the heat-treatment process. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of the heat-treatment process on amount and distribution of iron ions in a magnesium oxide lattice. The 57Fe Mössbauer effect measurements of fused and sintered magnesium oxide samples doped by the iron oxide were conducted. Investigation reveals in both cases the presence of Fe2+ as well as Fe3+ ions. Fe2+ ions occupy Mg2+ octahedral sites in the MgO lattice, whereas the Fe3+ ions are located in highly distorted octahedral coordination. The amount of Fe2+ varies from around 66% for fused samples to 30% for sintered samples.

Under the surface peeling of Cu-Fe-P lead frame alloy larger Fe particles were observed by energy dispersive spectroscopy. By using the large strain two-dimension plane strain model and elastic-plastic finite element method, the cause for peeling damage of Cu-Fe-P lead frame alloy was investigated. The results show that when the content of Fe particles is more than 30% at local Fe-rich area the intense stress concentration in the Fe particle would make the Fe particle broken up. The high equivalent stress mutation and the mismatch of equivalent strain 10% at the two sides of interface make it easy to develop the crack and peeling damage on finish rolling. The larger Fe particles in the Cu-Fe-P alloy should be avoided.

The Particulate nano-composites of ferrite and ferroelectric phases having the general formula (x) Mg{sub 0.25}Cu{sub 0.25}Zn{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} + (1-x) BaTiO{sub 3} (x=15%, 30% and 45%) were synthesized by sintering mixtures of highly ferroelectric BaTiO{sub 3} (BT) and highly magneto-strictive magnetic component Mg{sub 0.25}Cu{sub 0.25}Zn{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4}(MCZF). The presence of constituent phases of ferrite, ferroelectric and their composites were probed and confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. Surface morphology of the samples has been investigated using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). The variation of dielectric constant and dissipation factor as a function of frequency from 100 Hz to 1 MHz at room temperature were carried out using a Hioki LCR Hi-Tester. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss were found to decrease rapidly in the low frequency region and became almost constant in the high frequency region. The electrical conductivity deduced from the measured dielectric data has been thoroughly analyzed and found that the conduction mechanism in these composites is in conformity with small polaron hopping model. The ferroelectric properties of synthesized magneto-electric nano-composites were measured using P-E loop tracer.

A fast and straightforward method of the analysis of coffee infusions was developed for measurements of total concentrations of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn and Zn by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Its validity was proved by the analysis of spiked samples; recoveries of added metals were found to be within 98-104% while the precision was better than 4%. The method devised was used for the analysis of re-distilled water infusions of six popular ground coffees available in the Polish market. Using the mud coffee preparation it was established that percentages of metals leached in these conditions varied a lot among analysed coffees, especially for Ca (14-42%), Mg (6-25%) and Zn (1-24%). For remaining metals, the highest extractabilities were assessed for Mn (30-52%) while the lowest for Fe (4-16%) and Cu (2-12%). In addition, it was found that the water type and the coffee brewing preparation method influence the concentration of studied metals in coffee infusions the most.

We compute thermal spin transfer (TST) torques in Fe-MgO-Fe tunnel junctions using a first principles wave-function-matching method. At room temperature, the TST in a junction with 3 MgO monolayers amounts to 10-7 J/m2/K, which is estimated to cause magnetization reversal for temperature difference

The authors report on theoretical calculations of interlayer exchange coupling between two Fe layers separated by a modified Cu spacer. These calculations were motivated by experimental investigations of similar structures by the SFU group. The multilayer structures of interest have the general form: Fe/Cu(k)/Fe and Fe/Cu(m)/X(1)/Cu(n)/Fe where X indicates one AL (atomic layer) of foreign atoms X (Cr, Ag, or Fe) and k, m, n represent the number of atomic layers of Cu. The purpose of the experimental and theoretical work was to determine the effect of modifying the pure Cu spacer by replacing the central Cu atomic layer with the atomic layer of foreign atoms X. The first principles calculation were performed using the Layer Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker (LKKR) method. The theoretical thickness dependence of the exchange coupling between two semi-infinite Fe layers was calculated for pure Cu spacer thicknesses in the range of 0 < k < 16. The effect of the foreign atoms X on the exchange coupling was investigated using the structure with 9 AL Cu spacer as a reference sample. The calculated changes in the exchange coupling are in qualitative agreement with experiment.

The interest to systems containing copper oxide is connected with the problem of high-temperature superconductivity because of the closeness of its basic physical properties and properties of superconductor mother Cu-compounds. In this work, EXAFS study of the Cu sub 0 sub . sub 2 Mg sub 0 sub . sub 8 O compound is presented. A new iterative algorithm of the solution of ill-posed problem on determining three partial pair correlation functions from one EXAFS-data set near the Cu K-edge is described. The results of X-ray scattering study of a given sample show a presence of a single phase with the MgO structure and a lattice parameter of 4.219 A instead of 4.208 A for pure MgO. From the EXAFS investigations, we find the local distortion of the lattice. We revealed that the short range order differs both from a hypothetical alloy with the MgO structure and from copper oxide.

Fe-Cu deposits in the Kangdian Fe-Cu metallogenic province, SW China, are hosted in Paleoproterozoic meta-volcanic-sedimentary sequences and are spatially associated with coeval mafic intrusions. Several well-known examples are the giant Lala, Dahongshan, and Yinachang deposits. They have a common paragenetic sequence of an early Fe-oxide stage associated with sodic alteration and a late Cu-sulfide stage associated with potassic-carbonate alteration. Magnetite dominates the Fe-oxide stage of these deposits but is also present in the Cu-sulfide stage of the Lala deposit. This study uses trace element compositions of magnetite to examine the nature and origin of the ore-forming fluids. The magnetite has variable concentrations of Ti, Al, Mg, Mn, Si, V, Cr, Ca, Co, Ni, Sc, Zn, Cu, Mo, Sn, and Ga, which are thought to have been controlled mainly by fluid compositions and/or intensive parameters (e.g., temperature and oxygen fugacity ( fO2)). Fluid-rock interaction and coprecipitating mineral phases appear to be less important in controlling the magnetite compositions. Magnetite grains in the Fe-oxide stage of the Lala and Dahongshan deposits have comparable trace element compositions and were likely precipitated from chemically similar fluids. High Ni contents of magnetite in both deposits, coupled with previous isotopic data and the fact that the two deposits are spatially associated with coeval mafic intrusions, strongly suggest that the ore-forming fluids were genetically related to the mafic magmas that formed the intrusions. Magnetite grains in the Fe-oxide stage of the Yinachang deposit have much lower V and Ni but higher Sn and Mo contents than those of the Lala and Dahongshan deposits and are thus thought to have precipitated from more oxidized and Mo-Sn-rich fluids that may have evolved from relatively felsic magmas. Magnetite grains from the Cu-sulfide and Fe-oxide stages of the Lala deposit are broadly similar in composition, but those in the Cu

The application of treated animal wastewater generated in concentrated animal feeding operations on surface soil (within farm borders) leads to degradation of groundwater. Effects of an intensive hog farming operation, located at a Mediterranean limestone soil coastal area, on groundwater were investigated. Treated animal wastewater was discharged on a small plot (~10.8 ha) with a geologic fault. Samples were taken from seven groundwater monitoring wells close to the farm. A significant increase of K(+), Na(+), Cl(-), PO4 (3-)-P, Ca(2+) and Mg(2+) concentrations was found in monitoring wells which are affected by the subsurface flow of groundwater. Concentrations of Fe(3+)/Fe(2+), Mn(2+), Cu(2+), Zn(2+) and Ni(2+) in all groundwater monitoring wells were extremely low. During the winter, significant increases in concentrations of K(+) and PO4 (3-)-P were noted and attributed to high precipitation, which assisted in the leaching of K and P to groundwater.

The temperature dependencies of DC magnetic susceptibilities, {chi}(T), of CuFeInTe{sub 3} and CuFeGaTe{sub 3} alloys were measured in a SQUID apparatus using the protocol of field cooling (FC) and zero FC (ZFC). The FC curves of both samples reflect a weak ferromagnetic (or ferrimagnetic) behavior with a nearly constant value of {chi}(T) in the measured temperature range (2-300 K) indicating that the critical temperatures (T{sub c}) are >300 K. The ZFC curves diverges from FC, showing irreversibility temperatures (T{sub irr}) of {proportional_to}250 K for CuFeInTe{sub 3} and >300 K for CuFeGaTe{sub 3}, suggesting that we are dealing with cluster-glass systems in a superparamagnetic state. (Copyright copyright 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

The hydrogenation properties of the alloys of overall formula Mg/sub 2/Ni/sub 1-x/Fe/sub x/ (x less than or equal to 0.37) have been studied. In this range of composition multi-phase alloys were obtained containing Mg/sub 2/Ni, Mg and more or less finely dispersed Fe in different coordination as provided by the EXAFS technique and Moessbauer spectroscopy. There is no significant substitution of Ni by Fe atoms in the Mg/sub 2/Ni lattice. Two or three plateau-pressures are observed on the pressure-composition isotherms of the hydrides with the heats of formation in the range -18.4 to 20.4 kcal/mol H/sub 2/ (-77 to -85.4 kJ/mol H/sub 2/). The hydrides of the Fe-containing alloys show higher desorption rates of hydrogen compared to the pure Mg/sub 2/Ni hydride. 17 references, 5 figures, 1 table.

Thermodynamic assessments for the Fe-Si-Cr and Fe-Si-Mg ternary systems were conducted based on the critically evaluated and optimized thermodynamic and phase diagram data in the literature. The Gibbs energy of the liquid phase was described using the modified quasi-chemical model in pair approximation. The obtained thermodynamic descriptions of the Fe-Si-Cr and Fe-Si-Mg systems can be used to calculate any sections of the phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties of these two systems with high accuracy from room temperature to above the melting temperature.

The nano Fe-Fe3O4/graphene oxide (GO) was successfully synthesized by the precipitation method and followed by chemical reduction using FeCl3 as iron sources and NaBH4 as reducing agent. The products were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), BET, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and VMS. From the obtained XRD and XPS results, it revealed the formation of both Fe and Fe3O4 nano particles on GO surface. TEM images showed that both Fe3O4/GO and Fe-Fe3O4/GO had small particle size of 10-20 nm and uniform size distribution. Fe3O4/GO and Fe-Fe3O4/GO were used as adsorbents for removal of Cd2+ and Cu2+ ions from aqueous solution. Maximum adsorption capacity (Q max) of Fe-Fe3O4/GO for Cu2+ and Cd2+ are 90.0 mg g-1 and 108.6 mg g-1, respectively. These values are much higher as compared to those of Fe3O4/GO as well as those reported in the literature. Additionally, this novel adsorbent can be reused by washing with diluted Hcl solution and easily recovered by applying the magnetic field. The Cd2+ adsorption isotherm fits better for the Langmuir model that of the Freundlich model and it obeys the pseudo-second order kinetic equation.

A "cobalt-free" cathode material with stoichiometric composition La0.8Sr0.2Fe0.8Cu0.2O3-δ (LSFCu) was specifically developed for use with La0.8Sr0.2Ga0.8Mg0.2O3-δ (LSGM) electrolyte in intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cell (IT-SOFC) systems. The chemical stability of LSFCu in contact with LSGM electrolyte was investigated by structural and morphological analysis. The electrochemical properties of LSFCu dense pellets were investigated in the temperature range 600-750 °C by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). LSFCu|LSGM|LSFCu symmetrical cells were prepared and area specific resistance (ASR) values, directly depending on the rate limiting step of the oxygen reduction reaction, were evaluated. Fuel cells were prepared using LSFCu as cathode material on a LSGM pellet and electrochemical tests were performed in the 700-800 °C temperature range and compared to similar fuel cells prepared by using commercial La0.6Sr0.4Fe0.8Co0.2O3-δ (LSFCo) as a cathode. The maximum current density and power density recorded for LSFCu and LSFCo were similar. This fact demonstrates that Cu can be used as Co substitute in perovskite cathode materials.

13 Approved for public release; distribution unlimited fivefold bonds, with local atom arrangements very similar to the competing Mg2Cu ( Laves phase ...Ca50Mg25Cu25 alloys forms three equally probable crystal phases , CaMg2 Cu2Mg and CaCu [5,6]. CaMg2 is a hexagonal Laves phase (space group P63/mmc...containing 12 Mg and 4 Ca atoms in the first shell. Cu2Mg is a cubic Laves phase (space group is Fd-3m, space group number 227) with the lattice

Theoretical calculations are performed to understand the electronic structure and magnetic properties of CuFe2Ge2. The band structure reveals large electron density N(EF) at the Fermi level suggesting a strong itinerant character of magnetism. The Fermi surface is dominated by two dimensional sheet like structures, with potentially strong nesting between them. The magnetic ground state appears to be ferromagnetic along a and antiferromagnetic in other directions. These results show that CuFe2Ge2 is an antiferromagnetic metal, with similarities to the Fe-based superconductors; such as magnetism with substantial itinerant character and coupling between magnetic order and electrons at the Fermi energy.

Highlights: > The main precipitates formed in the artificially aged dilute alloys are needle-shaped. > The ageing temperature of 100 deg. C is found to be too low to form precipitates. > The number density of precipitates increases with increasing solute contents. > There is a correlation between Mg{sub 2}Si, Si and Cu content and alloys microstructure. > The precipitates kinetics is faster in the less dilute alloys. - Abstract: The effect of Mg, Si and Cu content on the microstructural development during ageing treatment of dilute 6000 series alloys have been investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Four dilute alloys were used in this study. These alloys were subjected to quenching and artificial ageing at 100 deg. C, 185 deg. C and 300 deg. C. The microstructural developments of the precipitates formed were monitored by TEM. The ageing temperature of 100 deg. C was found to be too low to form precipitates. It was found that needle or rod-shaped precipitates were formed in the alloys after ageing at 185 and 300 deg. C. Prolong ageing up to 1000 h at 300 deg. C resulted in the formation of Mg{sub 2}Si precipitate that coexists with the type of AlFeSi and Si precipitates. The results show a correlation between the Mg{sub 2}Si, Si and Cu content on the microstructure of the four dilute alloys after ageing treatment.

Recently, nanocrystalline Fe-Cu-B and Fe-Cu-Si-B soft magnetic alloys with high saturation magnetic flux density more than 1.8 T and low coercivity of about 6 A m{sup -1} were developed by annealing melt-quenched alloys containing 1.3 -1.5 at % Cu and 0 - 7 at % Si. In this work, the magnetic properties of annealed Fe{sub 77.5-x}Cu{sub x}Si{sub 15.5}B{sub 7} alloys with high Si content prepared by melt spinning are reported. The appropriate Cu content in this alloy system shifted to Cu content higher than that of the reported Fe-Cu-Si-B alloys with high B{sub s}. The annealed alloy with x = 2.0 showed the H{sub c} of about 10 A m{sup -1}, the B{sub 8000} of 1.47 T, and low magnetostriction of +4.8 x 10{sup -6}.

Co-Fe-B/MgO/Co-Fe-B devices showing a giant TMR effect are possible candidates for the generation of spin-currents by thermal heating. We present the observation of a magneto Seebeck effect in Co-Fe-B/MgO/Co-Fe-B magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs). The effects could be used for thermal spin-injection and thermally driven spin-transfer torque. The samples presented in this work consist of a minimal pseudo-spin-valve stack with sputtered Ta and Co-Fe-B layers and an e-beam evaporated MgO barrier. The MTJs are heated by a diode laser which achieves powers of up to 100 mW and is focused onto the sample in a standard confocal microscope setup. The heating is simulated by finite element methods and the experimental results are compared with ab initio calculations of the magneto-thermoelectric power and of the spin-Seebeck coefficient.

Iron nanoparticles embedded in MgO crystals were synthesized by Fe{sup +} ion implantation at an energy of 100 keV and varying fluences from 3.10{sup 16} to 3.10{sup 17} cm{sup -2}. Investigations of structural and magnetic properties of Fe nanoparticles have been performed using magnetometry, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and Moessbauer spectroscopy, as well as by theoretical Preisach modeling of bistable magnetic systems. It has been found that {alpha}- and {gamma}-Fe nanoparticles are formed for all fluences. The content of the {alpha}-Fe phase increases at higher fluences and after annealing. The influence of post-implantation annealing at 800 C in vacuum and under enhanced up to 10 kbar hydrostatic pressure in argon atmosphere on the formation of nanoparticles has been analyzed.

We compute the thermoelectric transport parameterized by the Seebeck coefficient and thermal/electric conductance of random-alloy FeCo/MgO/FeCo(001) magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) from first principles using a generalized Landauer-Büttiker formalism. The thermopower is found to be typically smalle

The objective of the present work is to study the casting characteristics of various Al-Li alloys, which include fluidity and strengths of the alloys and their interaction with cast molds. Materials investigated are Al-Li-Mg and Al-Li-Cu-Mg alloys with Li content of 2.5 wt%. The results show that sand molds with resin binders are good for Al-Li casting. Ceramic coatings can further reduce the metal-mold interactions. However, the permeability is also reduced by coating. The fluidity of Li-bea...

In this paper, we have obtained and investigated the magnetic behaviours of the ferromagnetic layer in thesymmetric spin valves of Co/Cu/NiFe and NiFe/Cu/Co by measuring with a vibrating sample magnetometer andanalysing in terms of the multi-domain Ising models. It has been found that some magnetic layer can have quitedifferent magnetic behaviours in different structures of spin valves, depending on the properties of the under-layer. Inour investigation, we have found that the magnetic behaviour of a Co layer depends mainly on the magnetization of theunder-layer, whereas this is not the case for the NiFe layer.

The NiFe/FeMn bilayers with different buffer layers (Ta or Ta/Cu) were prepared by magnetron sputtering.Results show that the exchange coupling field of NiFe/FeMn films with Ta buffer is higher than that of the films with Ta/ Cu buffer. We analysed the reasons by investigating the crystallographic texture, surface roughness and surface segregation of both films, respectively. We found that the decrease of the exchange coupling fields of NiFe/FeMn films with Ta/Cu buffer layers was mainly caused by the Cu surface segregation on NiFe surface.

Full Text Available The tunneling spin polarization (TSP is directly measured from reactively sputter deposited crystalline MgO tunnel barriers with various CoFe(B compositions using superconducting tunneling spectroscopy. We find that the Mg interface layer thickness dependence of TSP values for CoFeB/Mg/MgO junctions is substantially different from those for CoFe/Mg/MgO especially in the pre-annealed samples due to the formation of boron oxide at the CoFeB/MgO interface. Annealing depletes boron at the interface thus requiring a finite Mg interface layer to prevent CoFeOx formation at the CoFeB/MgO interface so that the TSP values can be optimized by controlling Mg thickness.

The atomistic mechanisms of plastic deformation in amorphous metals are far from being understood. We have derived potential parameters for molecular dynamics simulations of Mg-Cu amorphous alloys using the Effective Medium Theory. We have simulated the formation of alloys by cooling from the melt......, and have used these glassy configurations to carry out simulations of plastic deformation. These involved different compositions, temperatures (including zero), and types of deformation (uniaxial strain/pure shear), and yielded stress-strain curves and values of flow stress. Separate simulations were...

The S phase (Al2CuMg) is an important strengthening phase for the Al-Cu-Mg alloys, which are widely used in the aerospace and transportation industries. The commonly added alloying elements (Mn, Ti, Zr) and the impurity elements (Fe and Si) in the Al-Cu-Mg alloys are always found in the S phase. First-principles calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) were used to investigate the influence of doping Mn, Ti, Zr, Fe and Si elements on the S phase. Key findings demonstrated that these elements prefer to occupy different atomic sites in the S phase. Ti and Zr improved the structural stability of the S phase. The bulk modulus of the Fe, Si, Ti and Zr doped S phases becomes larger than that of the pure S phase. Both the crystal and electronic structures of the S phase are affected by the dopants. The results of this study provide a better theoretical understanding of the S phase, providing guidance for improved composition design and performance optimization of Al-Cu-Mg alloys.

Full Text Available 13 ternary Cu-Mg-Si alloys were prepared by means of the powder metallurgy method. Phase equilibria at 500 and 700 oC of the Cu-Mg-Si system were determined using X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD. The existence of 3 ternary compounds in this system was verified: CuMgSi_Sigma (Cu16Mg6Si7, Tau (Cu3Mg2Si, and Laves ((Cu0.8Si0.22(Mg0.88Cu0.12. A thermodynamic modeling for the Cu-Mg-Si system was then conducted on the basis of the experimental data obtained in this work and those critically reviewed from the literature. The complex phase relationship between Laves phase and other phases has been successfully modeled in this work. Comparisons between the calculated and the measured phase diagrams show that most of the experimental data can be reproduced by the presently obtained thermodynamic parameters.

We used the anomalous Hall effect to study the magnetic properties of MgO/Fe(t)/MgO(001) structures in which the Fe thickness t ranged from 4 Å to 14 Å. For the iron deposited at 140 K, we obtained perpendicular magnetization at room temperature below the critical thickness of t{sub c} = (9 ± 1) Å. In the vicinity of t{sub c}, the easy magnetization axis switched from an out-of-plane orientation to an in-plane orientation, and the observed spin-reorientation transition was considered in terms of the competition among different anisotropies. The perpendicular magnetization direction was attributed to magnetoelastic anisotropy. Finally, the temperature-dependent spin-reorientation transition was analyzed for Fe thicknesses close to t{sub c}.

The amorphous of Permalloy on the copper subtract was studied using composite electroplating method. A portion of hydrogen brings the counteraction on the surface of cathode leading nickel-iron alloys to be anomalous in the process of co-depositing. The results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) show that the Ni-Fe alloys layer is amorphous. The Giant Magneto -Impedance (GMI) effect of Ni-Fe alloys was obtained under the optimal conditions, dependence on the soft magnetic property of Ni-Fe amorphous thin film. As a result, the ratios△ Z/Z of NiFe/Cu/NiFe amorphous thin film are 30% at 40 kHz which is in low frequency. Furthermore, the GMI value of NiFe/Cu/NiFe amorphous thin film with a sandwich structure is higher than that of single-layer ferromagnetic films of the same thickness.

Mixtures of copper and iron oxides are used as industrial catalysts for the water-gas shift (WGS, CO + H2O f H2 + CO2). In-situ time-resolved X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption fine structure, and atomic pair distribution function analysis were used to study the reduction of CuFe2O4 with CO and the behavior of CuFe2O4 and Cu/Fe2O3 catalysts under WGS reaction conditions. MetalToxygenTmetal interactions enhance the stability of Cu 2+ and Fe 3+ in the CuFe2O4 lattice, and the mixed-metal oxide is much more difficult to reduce than CuO or Fe2O3. Furthermore, after heating mixtures of CuFe2O4/CuO in the presence of CO or CO/H2O, the cations of CuO migrate into octahedral sites of the CuFe2O4 lattice at temperatures (200-250 C) in which CuO is not stable. Above 250 C, copper leaves the oxide, the occupancy of the octahedral sites in CuFe2O4 decreases, and diffraction lines for metallic Cu appear. From 350 to 450 C, there is a massive reduction of CuFe2O4 with the formation of metallic Cu and Fe3O4. At this point, the sample becomes catalytically active for the production of H2 from the reaction of H2O with CO. Neutral Cu 0 (i.e., no Cu 1+ or Cu 2+ cations) is the active species in the catalysts, but interactions with the oxide support cannot be neglected. These studies illustrate the importance of in situ characterization when dealing with mixed-metal oxide WGS catalysts.

Mixtures of copper and iron oxides are used as industrial catalysts for the water-gas shift (WGS, CO + H2O → H2 + CO2). In-situ time-resolved X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption fine structure, and atomic pair distribution function analysis were used to study the reduction of CuFe2O4 with CO and the behavior of CuFe2O4 and Cu/Fe2O3 catalysts under WGS reaction conditions. Metal↔oxygen↔metal interactions enhance the stability of Cu2+ and Fe3+ in the CuFe2O4 lattice, and the mixed-metal oxide is much more difficult to reduce than CuO or Fe2O3. Furthermore, after heating mixtures of CuFe2O4/CuO in the presence of CO or CO/H2O, the cations of CuO migrate into octahedral sites of the CuFe2O4 lattice at temperatures (200-250 oC) in which CuO is not stable. Above 250 oC, copper leaves the oxide, the occupancy of the octahedral sites in CuFe2O4 decreases, and diffraction lines for metallic Cu appear. From 350 to 450 oC, there is a massive reduction of CuFe2O4 with the formation of metallic Cu and Fe3O4. At this point, the sample becomes catalytically active for the production of H2 from the reaction of H2O with CO. Neutral Cu0 (i.e. no Cu+1 or Cu+2 cations) is the active species in the catalysts, but interactions with the oxide support are necessary in order to obtain high catalytic activity. These studies illustrate the importance of in-situ characterization when dealing with mixed-metal oxide WGS catalysts.

Kim, A. [Kongju National University (Korea). Dept. of Mechanical Engineering; Cho, S.S. [Chungnam National University, Daejeon (Korea). School of Materials Engineering; Lee, H.J. [Hanbat National University, Daejeon (Korea). Dept. of Building Service Engineering

2004-12-15

The powder metallurgical route was utilised to obtain the Al-5Si-4Cu-4Mg (alloy 544) and Al-3Si-2Cu-2Mg (alloy 322) foams. Various steps such as centrifugal atomisation, mixing alloy powder and foaming agent (1 wt-%TiH{sub 2}), cold compaction of mixture, hot extrusion and foaming in a preheated furnace were performed. Foaming behaviour of the alloys was investigated by digital microscopy, image analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) mapping in this study. It was found that alloy 544 takes a shorter period of time to initiate pore nucleation than alloy 322. Alloy 544 had a higher pore growth rate than alloy 322 at the same pre-set furnace temperature. In both alloys, crack-like pore nucleation occurred between aluminium alloy powders elongated in a direction parallel to the extrusion direction. Both alloys showed the same foaming sequence of crack-like pore nucleation, spherical pore growth, coalescence of neighbouring pores and collapse of pores adjacent to the free surface of specimen. The time required to start pore nucleation decreased with the increase of foaming temperature. The cell walls of both alloys consisted of {alpha}-Al phase and eutectic phase. (author)

Full Text Available Mg, Ni, and Cu nanoparticles were synthesized by hydrogen plasma metal reaction method. Preparation of Mg2Ni and Mg2Cu alloys from these Mg, Ni, and Cu nanoparticles has been successfully achieved in convenient conditions. High pressure differential scanning calorimetry (DSC technique in hydrogen atmosphere was applied to study the synthesis and thermodynamic properties of the hydrogen absorption/desorption processes of nanostructured Mg-H, Mg-Ni-H, and Mg-Cu-H systems. Van’t Hoff equation of Mg-Ni-H system as well as formation enthalpy and entropy of Mg2NiH4 was obtained by high pressure DSC method. The results agree with the ones by pressure-composition isotherm (PCT methods in our previous work and the ones in literature.

Highlights: • MgCuZn ferrite was successfully prepared by novel microwave sintering (MS) method. • The sintering temperature was notably reduced from 1150 °C to 950 °C for MS. • Temperature dependence of DC conductivity and AC conductivity are studied. • 1 wt% PBS glass added MS MgCuZn ferrite samples are suitable for core materials in multilayer chip inductors (MLCI). -- Abstract: A series of pure stoichiometric and 1 wt% lead borosilicate (PBS) glass added MgCuZn ferrite with the general formula Mg{sub 0.5}Cu{sub x}Zn{sub 0.5−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} with x = 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25 and 0.3 were synthesized by microwave sintering technique. Single phase spinel structure is exhibited by the XRD patterns of these ferrites. DC and AC conductivity were investigated as a function of composition, temperature and frequency. DC conductivities were also estimated using the impedance spectroscopy analysis of Cole–Cole plots. The DC conductivities thus obtained are in good agreement with the experimental results. All the investigated samples exhibited two regions of conductivity one in the low temperature and the second in the high temperature region. It is observed that PBS glass added samples have lower conductivities than pure samples. Due to their lower conductivities and sintering temperatures the 1 wt% PBS glass added samples are suitable for multilayer chip inductor (MLCI) and high definition TV deflection yoke material application.

Spin filtering effects in nano-pillars of Fe-MgO-Fe single crystalline magnetic tunnel junctions are explored with two different sample architectures and thin MgO barriers (thickness: 3–8 monolayers). The two architectures, with different growth and annealing conditions of the bottom electrode, allow tuning the quality of the bottom Fe/MgO interface. As a result, an interfacial resonance states (IRS) is observed or not depending on this interface quality. The IRS contribution, observed by spin polarized tunnel spectroscopy, is analyzed as a function of the MgO barrier thickness. Our experimental findings agree with theoretical predictions concerning the symmetry of the low energy (0.2 eV) interfacial resonance states: a mixture of Δ{sub 1}-like and Δ{sub 5}-like symmetries.

A systematic study on the liquid separation in supercooled Cu-Co and Cu-Fe alloys was performed using a melt fluxing which permits high supercooling to be achieved. Moreover, this method renders it possible to directly measure binodal temperatures and establish metastable liquid miscibility gap (LMG). All phase-separated samples at compositions ranging from 10 to 80 wt pct Co or to 83 wt pct Fe were found to exhibit droplet-shaped morphologies, in spite of various droplet distributions. Uniformly dispersed microstructures were obtained as the minority component was less than 20 vol.%; while beyond this percentage, serious coarsening was brought about. Calculations of the miscibility gap in the Cu-Co system and Stokes movement velocity of Co and Fe droplets in Cu matrix were made to analyze the experimental results.

Electronic transport across a FeMg8 magnetic superatom and its dimer has been investigated using a density functional theory combined with Keldysh nonequilibrium Green's-function formalism. For a single cluster, our studies for the cluster supported in various orientations on a Au(100) surface show that the transport is sensitive to the contact geometry. Investigations covering the cases where the axes of Mg square antiprism are 45°, perpendicular, and parallel to the transport direction, show that the equilibrium conductance, transferred charge, and current polarizations can all change significantly with orientation. Our studies on the transport across a magnetic superatom dimer FeMg8-FeMg8 focus on the effect of electrode contact distance and the support. The calculated I-V curves show negative differential resistance behavior at larger electrode-cluster contact distances. Further, the equilibrium conductance in ferromagnetic state shows an unusually high spin polarization that is about 81.48% for specific contact distance, and a large magnetoresistance ratio exceeding 500% is also found. The results show that the superatom assemblies can provide unusual transport characteristics, and that the spin polarization and magnetoresistance can be controlled via the contact geometry.

It is shown that mechanical alloying in the immiscible Fe-Cu system is governed by the atomic shear event and shear-induced diffusion process. We found that an alpha-to-gamma phase transformation, as evidenced by the Nishiyama-Wasserman orientation relationship, occurs by simultaneous shearing...... structures, until a complete fee Fe-Cu solid solution is formed. The results provide significant insight into the understanding of recent experiments showing that chemical mixing of immiscible elements can bd induced by mechanical alloying. [S0163-1829(98)51342-2]....

The studies of mechanical alloying on the Fe-Cu system, as a model system for those with positive heats of mixing, are reviewed. Several problems involved in the mechanical alloying process are discussed. For example, (1) whether alloying occurs on an atomic level; (2) what the solid solubility...... in the Fe-Cu system is; (3) where the positive energy is stored in the alloys; (4) what the decomposition process of the supersaturated alloys is; and (5) what type of magnetic properties the new materials have. The elucidation of these problems will shed light on the understanding of the mechanisms...

A variety of microstructures in Mg/Cu super-laminate composites (SLCs) caused by competitive reactions during hydrogenation has been shown experimentally. Two types of MgCu2 structures, three-dimensional (3-D) network and layer, were observed after initial hydrogenation of Mg/Cu SLCs under the conditions of 573K, 86.4ks in H2 of 3-3MPa. It was proposed that Mg/Cu SLCs could be hydrogenated by two kinds of processes. The one is alloying Mg with Cu to form Mg2Cu followed by hydrogenation of Mg2Cu, leading to the formation of 3-D network of MgCu2. The other is hydrogenation of Mg followed by the reaction of MgH2 to Cu, leading to the formation of layer MgCu2. SEM observations revealed that there existed Mg2Cu nano-crystals at the interface between Mg and Cu in as-rolled Mg/Cu SLCs, and layer MgCu2 at the interface between MgH2 and Cu in pellets of MgH2 powder and Cu powder heated under the conditions of 673K, 86.4ks in H2 of 8.0 MPa. The existence of Mg2Cu nano-crystals enables alloying Mg with Cu at low temperatures (<473K).

We have used a first-principles Green's function technique to investigate the formation of magnetic moments in Fe/Cu-N/Fe bcc (001) trilayers. We show that the magnetic moment in the paramagnetic spacer material to a first approximation may be described as a linear superposition of the magnetic...

We propose a theoretical model for magnetic tunnel junction devices with rough interfaces based on a single-band tight-binding approximation. The high tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) for crystalline MgO barrier was observed at room temperature which is desirable for magnetic random access memory (MRAM) applications. In real junctions the Fe and MgO atoms are interdiffused at interfaces and the numbers of diffused Fe and MgO atoms are not the same. The interface disorder is modeled by considering replacement of MgO sites by Fe atoms with a probability of n>0.5. The non-equilibrium Green's function formalism is used to calculate transport in Fe/MgO/Fe junctions. We investigate the voltage dependencies of TMR and current densities for parallel and anti-parallel configurations for majority and minority spins. The results show that the roughness decreases the TMR. The current density for the parallel (antiparallel) orientations of magnetizations decreases (increases) by including roughness at the interface.

In this thesis the electronic structure of Fe/MgO{sub x} and Co/MgO{sub x} ferromagnet-insulator interfaces, representing material systems which are widely used in magnetic tunnel junctions, is studied by means of spin- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy. The photoemission studies focus particularly on the response of the ferromagnetic electronic system in contact with MgO of varying stoichiometries, as this reflects the mechanisms of metal-oxide bonding at real ferromagnet-insulator interfaces. The correlation between chemical bonding and electronic structure formation is analyzed by combining information from core- and valence-band photoemission spectroscopy. The spectral features are compared to band structure calculations, which are performed using the SPR-KKR method. The Fe/MgO and Co/MgO systems are prepared by molecular beam epitaxy under ultrahigh vacuum conditions on well-defined (4 x 6) GaAs(001) substrates. A structural analysis by means of low-energy electron diffraction (LEED) reveals their body-centered cubic crystalline structure, whereas the chemical characterization by Auger electron spectroscopy is used to quantify the chemical environment at the sample surfaces. The magnetic analysis, using the magneto-optical Kerr effect, reveals the uniaxial anisotropy of the ferromagnetic layers. A crucial parameter is given by the MgO degree of oxidation, which is addressed by means of core-level spectroscopy and quantified by suitable fitting procedures of the Mg 2p core level. The results of the photoemission experiments show, that the electronic structure of the Fe/MgO and Co/MgO ferromagnet/insulator interfaces and, consequently, the interfacial spin polarization are sensitively controlled by the interface chemistry. In particular, three distinct scenarios are identified: the nearly stoichiometric, the oxygen-deficient and the over-oxidized ferromagnet/MgO interface. Each case is defined by innate characteristics of the electronic structure at

CoFe/Cu multilayers were potentiostatically electrodeposited on Ti substrates as a function of different non-magnetic (Cu) layer thicknesses, and their characterizations were investigated. The compositional analysis performed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy disclosed that the Cu content in the multilayers increased and the Co content decreased as non-magnetic layer was increased. However, the Fe content was almost stable. The scanning electron microscopy studies showed that the surface morphology of the films is strongly affected by the non-magnetic layer thickness, and X-ray diffraction was used to analyse the structural properties of the multilayers and revealed that the multilayers have face-centred cubic (fcc) structure and their preferred orientations change depending on the Cu layer thickness. In the case of magnetoresistance measurements of the multilayers performed at room temperature, the highest giant magnetoresistance (GMR) values exhibited for the films with the Cu layer thickness (6.0 nm) whereas the lowest GMR magnitudes were observed for the films without Cu layer. Therefore, the variations of the Cu layer thicknesses were observed to have a significant effect on the GMR of multilayers. The differences observed in the magnetotransport properties were attributed to the microstructural changes caused by the Cu layer thickness. - Highlights: • CoFe/Cu multilayers were potentiostatically electrodeposited on Ti substrates. • Microstructural and magnetoresistance properties of CoFe/Cu multilayers were investigated. • All films had a face-centred cubic structure irrespective of the multilayer content. • All samples exhibited GMR and the maximum GMR value was 11%.

Graphical abstract: To reveal the underlying mechanism of Mg influence on the enhanced post-annealing stability of perpendicular Ta/CoFeB/Mg/MgO multilayers, the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis have been performed. It is found that a certain amount of Mg interlayer at the CoFeB/MgO interface could prevent the Ta oxidation to some extent due to the oxygen deficit MgO{sub x} (x < 1), and consequently lower the diffusion motivation of Ta from the bottom layer to the CoFeB/MgO interfaces to some extent during the annealing process. The prevention of Ta diffusion realizes the effective hybridization of Fe and O at the CoFeB/MgO interface and maintains interfacial magnetic anisotropy (K{sub CoFeB/MgO}). As a result, the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy at high annealing temperatures was maintained. - Highlights: • High annealing stability of perpendicular Ta/CoFeB/Mg/MgO multilayers was realized. • X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis has been performed to explore the reasons. • The prevention of Ta diffusion was realized by introducing Mg at the CoFeB/MgO interface. - Abstracts: To reveal the underlying mechanism of Mg influence on the enhanced post-annealing stability of perpendicular Ta/CoFeB/Mg/MgO multilayers, the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis has been performed. It is found that a certain amount of Mg interlayer at the CoFeB/MgO interface could prevent the Ta oxidation, and consequently lower the diffusion motivation of Ta from the bottom layer to the CoFeB/MgO interfaces to some extent in the annealing process. The prevention of Ta diffusion realizes the effective hybridization of Fe and O at the CoFeB/MgO interface and maintains interfacial magnetic anisotropy (KCoFeB/MgO). As a result, the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy at high annealing temperatures is maintained.

The solidification behaviour of multi-component and multi-phase systems has been largely investigated in binary and ternary alloys. In the present study, a quaternary model system is proposed based on the well known Al-Cu-Ag and Al-Cu-Mg ternary eutectic alloys. The quaternary eutectic composition and temperature were determined by EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectrometry) and DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry) analysis, respectively. The microstructure was then characterised by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope). In the DSC experiments, two types of quaternary eutectics were determined according to their phase composition. For each type of eutectic, various microstructures were observed, which result in different eutectic compositions. Only one of the determined eutectic compositions was further studied by the controlled growth technique in a vertical Bridgeman type furnace. In the initial part of the directionally solidified sample, competing growth between two-phase dendrites and three-phase eutectics was obtained, which was later transformed to competing growth between three-phase and four-phase eutectics. Moreover, silver enrichment was measured at the solidification front, which is possibly caused by Ag sedimentation due to gravity and Ag rejection from dendritic and three-phase eutectic growth, and its accumulation at the solidification front.

We provide new insights into the prograde evolution of HP/LT meta-sedimentary rocks on the basis of detailed petrologic examination, element-partitioning analysis, and thermodynamic modelling of well-preserved Fe-Mg-carpholite- and chloritoid-bearing rocks from the Afyon zone (Anatolia). Study samples, stemming from three different areas of the metamorphic belt, include typical quartz-carpholite veins as well as quartz-free and quartz-bearing phyllites. All samples exhibit multiple stages of carpholite, whereas zoning was until now rarely documented in this type of rocks. We document continuous, and discontinuous compositional (ferro-magnesian substitution) zoning of carpholite (overall XMg = 0.27-0.73) and chloritoid (overall XMg = 0.07-0.30), as well as clear equilibrium, and disequilibrium (i.e. reaction-related) textures involving carpholite and chloritoid, which consistently account for the consistent enrichment in Mg of both minerals through time, and the progressive replacement of carpholite by chloritoid. Mg/Fe distribution coefficients calculated between carpholite and chloritoid vary widely within samples (2.2-20.0). Among this range, only values of 7-11 correlate with equilibrium textures, in agreement with data from the literature. Equilibrium phase diagrams for (NaK)FMASH rock compositions are calculated using a newly modified thermodynamic dataset, including most recent data for carpholite, chloritoid, chlorite, and white mica, as well as further refinements for Fe-carpholite, and both chloritoid end-members, as required to reproduce accurately petrologic observations (phase relations, experimental constraints, Mg/Fe partitioning). Modelling reveals that Mg/Fe partitioning between carpholite and chloritoid is greatly sensitive to temperature, and calls for a future evaluation of possible use as a thermometer, valid for blueschist-facies conditions, which has so far been missing. In addition, calculations show significant effective bulk composition

Following predictions by first-principles theory of a huge tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) effect in epitaxial Fe/MgO/Fe magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs), measured magnetoresistance (MR) ratios of about 200% at room temperature (RT) have been reported in MgO-based epitaxial MTJs. Recently, a MR ratio of about 600% has been reported at RT in MgO-based MTJs prepared by magnetron sputtering, using amorphous CoFeB as the ferromagnetic electrode. These MTJs show great potential for application in spintronic devices. Fully epitaxial MTJs are excellent model systems that enhance our understanding of the spin-dependent tunneling process as the interface is well defined and can be fully characterized. Both theoretical calculations and experimental results clearly indicate that the interfacial structure plays a crucial role in the coherent tunneling across a single crystal MgO barrier, especially in epitaxial MgO-based MTJs grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Surface X-ray diffraction, Auger electron spectroscopy, X-ray absorption spectra, and X-ray magnetic circular dichroism techniques have been reported previously for interface characterization. However, no consistent viewpoint has been reached on the interfacial structures (such as FeO layer formation at the bottom Fe/MgO interface), and it is still an open issue. In this article, our recent studies on the interface characterization of MgO-based epitaxial MTJs by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, and spin-dependent tunneling spectroscopy, will be presented.

Full Text Available Theoretical calculations are performed to understand the electronic structure and magnetic properties of CuFe2Ge2. The band structure reveals large electron density N(EF at the Fermi level suggesting a strong itinerant character of magnetism. The Fermi surface is dominated by two dimensional sheet like structures, with potentially strong nesting between them. The magnetic ground state appears to be ferromagnetic along a and antiferromagnetic in other directions. These results show that CuFe2Ge2 is an antiferromagnetic metal, with similarities to the Fe-based superconductors; such as magnetism with substantial itinerant character and coupling between magnetic order and electrons at the Fermi energy.

Cu{sub 80-x}Ni{sub x}Fe{sub 20} (x=0, 5 and 20) alloys have been rapidly solidified by planar flow casting. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of as-quenched ribbons shows bcc-Fe precipitates embedded in an fcc phase (x=0), two co-existing fcc solid solutions (x=5) and a complete solid solution of the parent elements (x=20). Thermal treatments in the temperature range between 400 and 600 deg. C give precipitation and spinodal decomposition reactions. These phase transformations have been evidenced from a variation of lattice constants, from a broadening of diffraction peaks and from TEM observations. The role of Ni content on competition between precipitation and decomposition reactions during rapid solidification and annealing is discussed in terms of thermodynamic arguments. Recent CALPHAD assessment of thermodynamic properties for Cu-Fe-Ni system has been used for an estimation of composition and volume fraction of equilibrium phases.

The low temperature sintering of MgCuZn ferrite was investigated using the usual ceramic method. The effect of Cu substitution on the properties of MgZn ferrites was also investigated and it was found that the densification of MgCuZn ferrite is dependent upon Cu concentration. The sintered ferrite with a density of 4.93 g/cm3 and electrical resistivity > 1011-cm was obtained for the ferrite with 12 mol% Cu at relatively low sintering temperature (910°C). The magnetic properties of the ferrites also improved by the Cu substitution. The chip inductors made of the ferrite fired at 910 C with 12 mol% Cu exhibited higher d.c. resistance. From these studies it is concluded that the good quality chip inductor can be obtained using the MgCuZn ferrites.

NiCuZn ferrites are widely employed for many electronic applications, but can be replaced by MgCuZn ferrites owing to their superior properties like low magnetostriction, environmental stability, low stress sensitivity and low cost. In view of this, a series of non-stoichiometric MgCuZn ferrites (Mg{sub 0.5-x}Cu{sub x}Zn{sub 0.5}Fe{sub 1.9}O{sub 4-{delta}} with x = 0.0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25) have been successfully synthesized by both conventional and microwave sintering techniques. The non-stoichiometry was intentionally introduced into the ferrites to ensure high resistivity of the samples. X-ray diffraction patterns confirm the single phase spinel structure in both cases. The elemental composition of these ferrites was analysed by energy-dispersive x-ray spectrometry. The samples sintered by the microwave technique were found to be denser than the conventionally sintered samples. The initial permeability of MgCuZn ferrites was studied with an increase in copper concentration from x = 0.0 to 0.25. The temperature variation of the initial permeability of these samples was carried out from 30 {sup 0}C to 150 {sup 0}C. The results are discussed in the light of microstructure variations of the conventionally and microwave sintered samples. The phenomena involved in microwave sintering are also discussed.

Efficient removal of heavy metals complexed with organic ligands from water is still an important but challenging task now. Herein, a novel combined process, i.e., Fe(III)-displacement/UV degradation/alkaline precipitation (abbreviated as Fe(III)/UV/OH) was developed to remove copper-organic complexes from synthetic solution and real electroplating effluent, and other processes including alkaline precipitation, Fe(III)/OH, UV/OH were employed for comparison. By using the Fe(III)/UV/OH process, some typical Cu(II) complexes, such as Cu(II)-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), Cu(II)-nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), Cu(II)-citrate, Cu(II)-tartrate, and Cu(II)-sorbate, each at 19.2 mgCu/L initially, were efficiently removed from synthetic solution with the residual Cu below 1 mg/L. Simultaneously, 30-48% of total organic carbon was eliminated with exception of Cu(II)-sorbate. Comparatively, the efficiency of other processes was much lower than the Fe(III)/UV/OH process. With Cu(II)-citrate as the model complex, the optimal conditions for the combined process were obtained as: initial pH for Fe(III) displacement, 1.8-5.4; molar ratio of [Fe]/[Cu], 4:1; UV irradiation, 10 min; precipitation pH, 6.6-13. The mechanism responsible for the process involved the liberation of Cu(II) ions from organic complexes as a result of Fe(III) displacement, decarboxylation of Fe(III)-ligand complexes subjected to UV irradiation, and final coprecipitation of Cu(II) and Fe(II)/Fe(III) ions. Up to 338.1 mg/L of Cu(II) in the electroplating effluent could be efficiently removed by the process with the residual Cu(II) below 1 mg/L and the removal efficiency of ∼99.8%, whereas direct precipitation by using NaOH could only result in total Cu(II) removal of ∼8.6%. In addition, sunlight could take the place of UV to achieve similar removal efficiency with longer irradiation time (90 min).

With the substitution of part Mg in LaMg3by Cu, the elastic constantsC11 andC12 increase whileC44 decreases, implying an enhanced Poisson effect and smaller resistance to (100) shear. Furthermore, the bulk modulusB increases, while the shear modulusG, elastic modulusE and anisotropic ratioA are reduced. The calculated Debye temperature of LaCuMg2 is lower, implying the weaker interaction between atoms in LaCuMg2. Then, the stress-strain curves in entire range and the ideal strength at critical strain are studied. The present results show that the lowest ideal tensile strength for LaMg3 and LaCuMg2is in the direction. The ideal shear strength on the (110) slip system of LaMg3 is greater than LaCuMg2. The density of states and charge density distribution are further studied to understand the inherent mechanism of the mechanical properties.

A new ferromagnetic shape memory thin film system, Fe-Pd-Cu, was developed using ab initio calculations, combinatorial fabrication and high-throughput experimentation methods. Reversible martensitic transformations are found in extended compositional regions, which have increased fcc-fct transformation temperatures in comparison to previously published results. High resolution transmission electron microscopy verified the existence of a homogeneous ternary phase without precipitates. Curie temperature, saturation polarization and orbital magnetism are only moderately decreased by alloying with nonmagnetic Cu. Compared to the binary system; enhanced Invar-type thermal expansion anomalies in terms of an increased volume magnetostriction are predicted. Complementary experiments on splat-fabricated bulk Fe-Pd-Cu samples showed an enhanced stability of the disordered transforming Fe{sub 70}Pd{sub 30} phase against decomposition. From the comparison of bulk and thin film results, it can be inferred that, for ternary systems, the Fe content, rather than the valence electron concentration, should be regarded as the decisive factor determining the fcc-fct transformation temperature.

Chemically ordered FePt is one of the most promising materials to reach the ultimate limitations in storage density of future magnetic recording devices due to its high uniaxial magnetocrystalline anisotropy and a corrosion resistance superior to rare-earth based magnets. In this study, FePt and FePt/Cu bilayers have been sputter deposited at room temperature onto thermally oxidized silicon wafers, glass substrates and self-assembled arrays of spherical SiO{sub 2} particles with diameters down to 10 nm. Millisecond flash lamp annealing, as well as conventional rapid thermal annealing was employed to induce the phase transformation from the chemically disordered A1 phase into the chemically ordered L1{sub 0} phase. The influence of the annealing temperature, annealing time and the film thickness on the ordering transformation and (001) texture evolution of FePt films with near equiatomic composition was studied. Whereas flash lamp annealed FePt films exhibit a polycrystalline morphology with high chemical L1{sub 0} order, rapid thermal annealing can lead to the formation of chemically ordered FePt films with (001) texture on amorphous SiO{sub 2}/Si substrates. The resultant high perpendicular magnetic anisotropy and large coercivities up to 40 kOe are demonstrated. Simultaneously to the ordering transformation, rapid thermal annealing to temperatures exceeding 600 C leads to a break up of the continuous FePt film into separated islands. This dewetting behavior was utilized to create regular arrays of FePt nanostructures on SiO{sub 2} particle templates with periods down to 50 nm. The addition of Cu improves the (001) texture formation and chemical ordering for annealing temperatures T{sub a} {<=}600 C. In addition, the magnetic anisotropy and the coercivity of the ternary FePtCu alloy can be effectively tailored by adjusting the Cu content. The prospects of FePtCu based exchange spring media, as well as the magnetic properties of FePtCu nanostructures fabricated

A series of biodegradable Mg-Cu alloys is designed to induce osteogenesis, stimulate angiogenesis, and provide long-lasting antibacterial performance at the same time. The Mg-Cu alloys with precipitated Mg2Cu intermetallic phases exhibit accelerated degradation in the physiological environment due to galvanic corrosion and the alkaline environment combined with Cu release endows the Mg-Cu alloys with prolonged antibacterial effects. In addition to no cytotoxicity towards HUVECs and MC3T3-E1 cells, the Mg-Cu alloys, particularly Mg-0.03Cu, enhance the cell viability, alkaline phosphatase activity, matrix mineralization, collagen secretion, osteogenesis-related gene and protein expressions of MC3T3-E1 cells, cell proliferation, migration, endothelial tubule forming, angiogenesis-related gene, and protein expressions of HUVECs compared to pure Mg. The favorable osteogenesis and angiogenesis are believed to arise from the release of bioactive Mg and Cu ions into the biological environment and the biodegradable Mg-Cu alloys with osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and long-term antibacterial ability are very promising in orthopedic applications. PMID:27271057

A series of biodegradable Mg-Cu alloys is designed to induce osteogenesis, stimulate angiogenesis, and provide long-lasting antibacterial performance at the same time. The Mg-Cu alloys with precipitated Mg2Cu intermetallic phases exhibit accelerated degradation in the physiological environment due to galvanic corrosion and the alkaline environment combined with Cu release endows the Mg-Cu alloys with prolonged antibacterial effects. In addition to no cytotoxicity towards HUVECs and MC3T3-E1 cells, the Mg-Cu alloys, particularly Mg-0.03Cu, enhance the cell viability, alkaline phosphatase activity, matrix mineralization, collagen secretion, osteogenesis-related gene and protein expressions of MC3T3-E1 cells, cell proliferation, migration, endothelial tubule forming, angiogenesis-related gene, and protein expressions of HUVECs compared to pure Mg. The favorable osteogenesis and angiogenesis are believed to arise from the release of bioactive Mg and Cu ions into the biological environment and the biodegradable Mg-Cu alloys with osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and long-term antibacterial ability are very promising in orthopedic applications.

Magnetic coupling in trilayer films of FeNi/Cu/FeCo deposited on Si/SiO{sub 2} substrates have been studied. While the thicknesses of the FeNi and FeCo layers were kept constant at 100 Å, the thickness of the Cu spacer was varied from 5 to 50 Å. Both hysteresis loop and ferromagnetic resonance results indicate that all films are ferromagnetically coupled. Micromagnetic simulations well reproduce the ferromagnetic resonance mode positions measured by experiments, enabling the extraction of the coupling constants. Films with a thin Cu spacer are found to be strongly coupled, with an effective coupling constant of 3 erg/cm{sup 2} for the sample with a 5 Å Cu spacer. The strong coupling strength is qualitatively understood within the framework of a combined effect of Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida and pinhole coupling, which is evidenced by transmission electron microscopy analysis. The magnetic coupling constant surprisingly decreases exponentially with increasing Cu spacer thickness, without showing an oscillatory thickness dependence. This is partially connected to the substantial interfacial roughness that washes away the oscillation. The results have implications on the design of multilayers for spintronic applications.

Microstructure and phase transformation in the Al-Cu-Fe alloys of the approximate compositional range of 20 -50 at.% Cu and 2 - 10 Fe at.% have been investigated from samples quenched from their respective temperatures by means of different thermal analysis, magnetothermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy, electron probe analysis and powder X-ray diffraction. Representative phase transformations categorized as polymorphic, discontinuous precipitation,quasi-binary eutectoid, and ternary transitional U-type phase transformation are presented. These phase transformations were found to have a common feature which consumes the β phase and appears the φ phase. A schematic diagram was proposed to demonstrate the transition processes with decreasing temperature.

We have investigated interlayer exchange coupling (IEC) in epitaxial films of both Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/MgO/Fe(0 0 1) and {gamma}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/MgO/Fe(0 0 1). Depending on the thickness of the MgO spacer, both systems exhibit strong antiferromagnetic IEC of -1 to -2 erg cm{sup -2}. The {gamma}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/MgO/Fe(0 0 1) trilayer exhibits the strongest IEC when the thickness of the MgO spacer is approximately 7 A, whereas the Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}/MgO/Fe(0 0 1) trilayer exhibits the strongest IEC when the thickness of the MgO spacer is zero. The results suggest that two different types of exchange coupling exist in the magnetic trilayers which consist of metallic iron and spinel ferrite layers.

The effects of different contents of rare earth element, and erbium, on the as-cast microstructures of Al-6Zn-2Mg and Al-6Zn-2Mg-1.8Cu alloys were studied by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, transmission electron microscopy and EDS analysis. The results show that the netlike structure of as-cast alloys can be remarkably refined, and the distance of dendritic structure decreases, with Er addition. However, the improvement results on Al-Zn-Mg-Cu are not better than that of Al-Zn-Mg. Er and Al can interact to form Al3Er phase, which is coherent with α(Al) matrix, with trace Er addition to the Al-Zn-Mg alloy. The refinement effect of Al-Zn-Mg alloys is familiar with the formation and precipitation of coherent Al3Er phases. The ternary compound AlCuEr, similar with AlCuSc phase, will form when Er is added to Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy, which suppresses the formation of Al3Er phase and doesn't solve in the following heat treatment.

A family of hydrides, including the high capacity MgH2 and LiH, is reported. The disadvantages these hydrides normally display (high absorption/desorption temperatures and poor kinetics) are mitigated by Cu-hydride catalysis. This paper reports on the synthesis of novel CuLi0.08Mg1.42H4 and CuLi0.08Mg1.92H5 hydrides, which are structurally and thermodynamically characterized for the first time. The CuLi0.08Mg1.42H4 hydride structure in nanotubes is able to hold molecular H2, increasing the gravimetric and volumetric capacity of this compound. The catalytic effect these compounds show on hydride formation and decomposition of CuMg2 and Cu2Mg/MgH2, Li and LiH, Mg and MgH2 is analyzed. The Gibbs energy, decomposition temperature, and gravimetric capacity of the reactions occurring within the Cu-Li-Mg-H system are presented for the first time. First principles and phonon calculations are compared with experiments, including neutron spectroscopy. It is demonstrated that the most advantageous sample contains CuLi0.08Mg1.92 and (Li) ∼ Li2Mg3; it desorbs/absorbs hydrogen according to the reaction, 2CuLi0.08Mg1.42H4 + 2Li + 4MgH2 ↔ 2CuLi0.08Mg1.92 + Li2Mg3 + 8H2 at 114 °C (5.0 wt%) - 1 atm, falling within the proton exchange membrane fuel cell applications window. Finally the reaction 2CuLi0.08Mg1.42H4 + MgH2 ↔ 2CuLi0.08Mg1.92 + 5H2 at 15 °C (4.4 wt%) - 1 atm is found to be the main reaction of the samples containing CuLi0.08Mg1.92 that were analyzed in this study.

Full Text Available Supervalent cation doping and metal oxide coating are the most efficacious and popular methods to optimize the property of LiFePO4 lithium battery material. Mg-doped and MgO-coated LiFePO4/C were synthesized to analyze their individual influence on the electrochemical performance of active material. The specific capacity and rate capability of LiFePO4/C are improved by both MgO coating and Mg doping, especially the Mg-doped sample—Li0.985Mg0.015FePO4/C, whose discharge capacity is up to 163 mAh g−1, 145.5 mAh g−1, 128.3 mAh g−1, and 103.7 mAh g−1 at 1 C, 2 C, 5 C, and 10 C, respectively. The cyclic life of electrode is obviously increased by MgO surface modification, and the discharge capacity retention rate of sample LiFePO4/C-MgO2.5 is up to 104.2% after 100 cycles. Comparing samples modified by these two methods, Mg doping is more prominent on prompting the capacity and rate capability of LiFePO4, while MgO coating is superior in terms of improving cyclic performance.

Bipolar hysteretic resistance switching in epitaxial Fe/V/MgO/Fe magnetic tunnel junctions is observed in highly reproducible I(V) curves and found to be modified by the frequency of the bias voltage sweep. Observation of slow relaxation of the resistance state values is reported. A model is proposed that takes into account the incidence of time-dependent electric-field-induced migration of atomic species on the effective barrier thickness. This model provides a good qualitative agreement with experimental data.

Hysteretic resistance switching is observed in epitaxial Fe /Cr/MgO/Fe magnetic tunnel junctions under bias voltage cycling between negative and positive values of about 1V. The junctions switch back and forth between high- and low-resistance states, both of which depend on the device bias history. A linear dependence is found between the magnitude of the tunnel magnetoresistance and the crafted resistance of the junctions. To explain these results, a model is proposed that considers electron transport both by elastic tunneling and by defect-assisted transmission.

in the Fe-Cu system is; (3) where the positive energy is stored in the alloys; (4) what the decomposition process of the supersaturated alloys is; and (5) what type of magnetic properties the new materials have. The elucidation of these problems will shed light on the understanding of the mechanisms...... for the preparation of materials under highly non-equilibrium conditions in systems with positive heats of mixing by mechanical alloying.......The studies of mechanical alloying on the Fe-Cu system, as a model system for those with positive heats of mixing, are reviewed. Several problems involved in the mechanical alloying process are discussed. For example, (1) whether alloying occurs on an atomic level; (2) what the solid solubility...

X-ray diffractometry(XRD), optical microscopy(OM), scanning electron microscopy(SEM) were used to study the fatigue fracture of the T7451 Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy (470 ℃, 60 min+115 ℃, 8 h+165 ℃, 16 h). The study reveals mainly the microscopic structure of the alloy in the process of crack formation and crack growth. The fatigue fracture is characterized by three zones: fatigue crack source zone, fatigue crack propagation zone and fatigue fracture zone. The fatigue damage preferably incubates at the fractured inclusion particles at or near (about 25 μm) the specimen free surfaces, and these brittle Fe-rich intermetallic inclusion particles are (7-10) μm×(11-14) μm in size. Some features such as "feather-like", "river and range" and boundary extrusions can be observed in the fatigue propagation zone, and in the fatigue fracture zone the surface is rough and uneven.

GMR effect of multilayers of bcc-Fe(M)(M＝Co, Ni) alloy and Cu layers has been investigated. The maximum MR ratio is found at 1.1 nm Fe(Co) and 1.3～1.4 nm Cu layer thickness in [Fe(Co)/Cu], and at 1.6 nm Fe(Ni) and 1.4 nm Cu layer thickness in [Fe(Ni)/Cu]. Under the optimum annealing condition, the MR ratio increases up to 50% and 38% for Fe(Co) and Fe(Ni) systems, respectively. The origin of the increase of GMR is discussed, taking the progress of preferred orientation of Fe(Co)[100] or Fe(Ni)[100] by annealing into account.

In order to investigate any influence of steps and possible positive effects of making surface alloys the ammonia synthesis has been investigated over Au modified Fe(111) and Ag and Cu modified Fe(100) single crystals in the temperature range 603-773 K, using a system combining ultra-high vacuum...... and a high-pressure cell. Ammonia was synthesized from a stoichiometric (N-2:3H(2)) gas mixture at a pressure of 2 bar. By deposition of small amounts of An, the ammonia production activity of the Fe(1 1 1) surface can be enhanced. More important, for the gold modified surface, the reaction order in ammonia...

Spin-polarized density functional theory computations have been carried out to study the stable adsorption configurations of Cun (n = 1-7, 13) on Fe and Fe3C surfaces for understanding the initial stages of copper promotion in catalysis. At low coverage, two-dimensional aggregation is more preferred over dispersion and three-dimensional aggregation on the Fe(110) and Fe(100) surfaces as well as the metallic Fe3C(010) surfaces, while dispersion is more favorable over aggregation on the Fe(111) surface. On the Fe3C(001) and Fe3C(100) surfaces with exposed iron and carbon atoms, the adsorbed Cu atoms prefer dispersion at low coverage, while aggregation along the iron regions at high coverage. On the iron surfaces, the adsorption energies of Cun (n = 2-7) are highest on Fe(111), medium on Fe(100) and lowest on Fe(110). On the Fe3C surfaces, the adsorption energies of Cun (n = 1-3) are highest on Fe3C(100), medium on Fe3C(010) and lowest on Fe3C(001), while, for n = 4-7 and 13, Fe3C(010) has stronger adsorption than Fe3C(100). On the basis of their differences in electronegativity, the adsorbed Cu atoms can oxidize the metallic Fe(110), Fe(100) and Fe3C(010) surfaces and become negatively charged. On the Fe3C(001) and Fe3C(100) surfaces with exposed iron and carbon atoms, the adsorbed Cu atoms interacting with surface carbon atoms are oxidized and positively charged. Unlike the most stable Fe(110) and Fe3C(001) surfaces, where the Fe(110) surface has stronger Cu affinity than the Fe3C(001) surface, which is in agreement with the experimental finding, the less and least stable Fe3C(010) and Fe3C(100) surfaces have stronger Cu affinities than the Fe(110) and Fe(100) surfaces. Since less stable facets are not preferably formed thermodynamically, it is crucial to prepare such surfaces to explore Cu adsorption and promotion, and this provides challenges to surface sciences.

Using a first-principles noncollinear wave-function-matching method, we studied the spin-transfer torques (STTs) in CoFe/Mg-B-O/CoFe(001) magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs), where three different types of B-doped MgO in the spacer are considered, including B atoms replacing Mg atoms (Mg{sub 3}BO{sub 4}), B atoms replacing O atoms (Mg{sub 4}BO{sub 3}), and B atoms occupying interstitial positions (Mg{sub 4}BO{sub 4}) in MgO. A strong asymmetric angular dependence of STT can be obtained both in ballistic CoFe/Mg{sub 3}BO{sub 4} and CoFe/Mg{sub 4}BO{sub 4} based MTJs, whereas a nearly symmetric STT curve is observed in the junctions based on CoFe/Mg{sub 4}BO{sub 3}. Furthermore, the asymmetry of the angular dependence of STT can be suppressed significantly by the disorder of B distribution. Such skewness of STTs in the CoFe/Mg-B-O/CoFe MTJs could be attributed to the interfacial resonance states induced by the B diffusion into MgO spacer.

We examine the microstructural and optical absorption spectra of 10-30 vol% Cu-MgF2 nanoparticle cermet films prepared by co-evaporation in vacuum. The results show that the Cu-MgF2 cermet films are mainly composed of the amorphous MgF2 matrix with embedded fcc Cu nanoparticles of average size 12-24 nm. The results also show that the optical absorption of the films decreases as the wavelength increases in the range of 200-800nm. The surface plasmon resonance absorption peaks of Cu nanoparticles in 10, 20 and 30 vo1% Cu-MgF2 films appear at 578, 588 and 606nm, respectively. The interband transition absorption of Cu starts from 590nm downwards.Based on the Maxwell-Garnett theory, the experimental optical absorption properties of the films have been quantitatively evaluated.

Research on spintronics and on multiferroics leads now to the possibility of combining the properties of these materials in order to develop new functional devices. Here we report the integration of a layer of magnetostrictive material into a magnetic tunnel junction. A FeGa/MgO/Fe heterostructure has been grown on a GaAs(001) substrate by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and studied by X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD). The comparison between magneto optical Kerr effect (MOKE) measurements and hysteresis performed in total electron yield allowed distinguishing the ferromagnetic hysteresis loop of the FeGa top layer from that of the Fe buried layer, evidencing a different switching field of the two layers. This observation indicates an absence of magnetic coupling between the two ferromagnetic layers despite the thickness of the MgO barrier of only 2.5 nm. The in-plane magnetic anisotropy has also been investigated. Overall results show the good quality of the heterostructure and the general feasibility of such a device using magnetostrictive materials in magnetic tunnel junction.

We have shown that, in contrast to the results in the literature, the Bragg peak intensity of Ni80Fe20/Cu superlattices is enhanced at the incident x-ray energy slightly higher than the absorption edge of the heavier element (Cu). The atomic density at Ni80Fe20/Cu interface was analysed by the diffraction anomalous fine structure technology with the incident angle of x-ray fixed at the first Bragg peak. Our results demonstrate the epitaxy growth of Ni80Fe20/Cu superlattices. Upon annealing, the epitaxity of Ni80Fe20/Cu multilayers becomes poor but the local crystallinity in each layer is improved.

The magnetic properties of Fe-Cu metastable solid solutions have been investigated by means of neutron diffraction and magnetisation measurements. These compounds exhibit ferromagnetic order with Curie temperatures above room temperature for concentrations beyond 40 at% in Fe. The magnetic moment at 5 K can reach values over 2 {mu} {sub B}, while the high field susceptibility is similar to that found in FCC-FeNi Invar alloys. These features together with the low values for the linear coefficient for thermal expansion in the ferromagnetic region suggest that magneto-volume anomalies, including Invar behaviour, play a major role in the magnetic properties of this system when the crystal structure is face centred cubic. Such behaviour could be explained using theoretical total-band energy calculations.

Mg-xwt.%CuY (x=15, 20, 25) composites were successfully prepared by reactive mechanical alloying (RMA).X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurement shows that main phases of the as milled composites are MgH2 and Mg2Cu, and they converted into Mg and MgCu2 after dehydrogenation, respectively.Pressure-Composition-Isotherm (PCI) test shows that the composites exhibit double pressure plateau at each isothermal desorption process.The hydrogen absorption and desorption kinetics of the composites become worse with increasing x content, indicating that Mg-Cu phase has a negative effect on the hydrogen sorption properties of the composites.It is supposed that the good hydrogen sorption properties of the composites attribute to the catalyst effect of yttrium hydride distributed in Mg substrate and the particles size reduction and crystal defects formed by RMA.

We report the longitudinal spin-Seebeck effects (LSSEs) for Pt/Fe70Cu30/BiY2Fe5O12 (BiYIG) and Pt/BiYIG devices. The LSSE voltage was found to be enhanced by inserting an ultra-thin Fe70Cu30 interlayer. This enhancement decays sharply with increasing the Fe70Cu30 thickness, suggesting that it is not due to bulk phenomena, such as a superposition of conventional thermoelectric effects, but due to interface effects related to the Fe70Cu30 interlayer. Combined with control experiments using Pt/Fe70Cu30 devices, we conclude that the enhancement of the LSSE voltage in the Pt/Fe70Cu30/BiYIG devices is attributed to the improvement of the spin-mixing conductance at the Pt/BiYIG interfaces.

Full Text Available A L9(34 orthogonal experiment was conducted to evaluate the influence of 9 mixtures which consisted of Cu2+, Zn2+, Fe2+ and I− ions at different ion concentrations on fungal diversity and toxigenic fungal growth in a Bacillus subtilis-fermented liquid feed (FLF using pyrosequencing. The maximal Chao estimator and Shannon index were achieved in the FLF with a mixture of Cu2+ (200 mg/kg, Zn2+ (160 mg/kg, Fe2+ (150 mg/kg and I− (2.4 mg/kg. The minimal relative abundance of Aspergillus was achieved when a mixture of Cu2+ (200 mg/kg, Zn2+, Fe2+ and I− was added to the FLF. Compared with Zn2+, Fe2+ and I−, Cu2+ was the most important ion in inhibiting Aspergillus growth. Adding Zn2+ (160 mg/kg, Cu2+, Fe2+ and I− to the FLF minimized the relative abundance of Fusarium. It was Zn2+ instead of Cu2+ played a critical role in suppressing the growth of Fusarium. The proper use of the mixture of Cu2+, Zn2+, Fe2+ and I− in FLF contributes to inhibit the growth of mycotoxin-producing fungi during storage. The new findings of this study help farmers properly use the mixture of Cu2+, Zn2+, Fe2+ and I− to inhibit the growth of mycotoxin-producing fungi in the production of high quality FLF and alleviate mycotoxins damages to animals and humans.

The geometric structure of MgO deposited on Fe(001) in ultrahigh vacuum by electron evaporation was determined in detail by using surface x-ray diffraction. In contrast to the common belief that MgO grows in direct contact on the Fe(001) substrate, we find an FeO interface layer between the substrate and the growing MgO structure which has not been considered thus far. This result opens new perspectives for the understanding of the Fe/MgO/Fe(001) interface and the tunneling magnetoresistance effect in general.

Full Text Available Although Cu and Fe are immiscible under equilibrium conditions, they can form supersaturated solid solutions by mechanical alloying. In this paper, nano-structured of the metastable Cu-Fe phase containing 10, 15, 20 and 25% wt Fe were synthesized by intensive ball milling for 15h, in order to achieve a solid solution of Fe in Cu. The phase composition, dissolution of the Fe atoms into the Cu matrix, and the morphology of the milling products were studied by X-ray Diffraction (XRD, Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS, and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM techniques, respectively. The mean crystallite size of the milled samples was determined by XRD peak broadening using the Williamson-Hall approximation. The XRD analysis results showed that the solid solubility of the Fe in the Cu was extended to 20%wt after milling for 15 h, and a homogeneous solid solution of Cu80Fe20 with a mean crystallite size of 19nm was obtained. The mean crystallite size decreased with increasing milling time and it was more evident in the initial stage of the milling. The Cu lattice parameter increased by dissolving the Fe into the Cu matrix probably due to the magneto-volume effect in the Cu-Fe alloys. The FESEM observations showed that the milling products were agglomerates consisting of uniform particles. The Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM results showed that the Cu80Fe20 powder has soft magnetic properties.

In this study we investigated the magnetic and transport properties of thin Fe-rich amorphous films and Fe-rich/Cu multilayers. We compared the extraordinary Hall effect in these two types of samples and discussed it in terms of thickness and sample structure. The thicker films exhibited a strong in-plane magnetic anisotropy, and by decreasing film thickness both saturated Hall resistivity and Hall sensitivity increase. A Hall resistivity value of 20 {mu} Ohm-Sign cm is observed in 100 nm thick Fe-rich films at 12 K and a sensitivity of 1.3 Ohm-Sign /T is obtained at room temperature. Electrical conductance increases and Hall resistivity decreases when the films are sandwiched with Cu.

CuFeSb is isostructural to the ferro-pnictide and chalcogenide superconductors and it is one of the few materials in the family that are known to stabilize in a ferromagnetic ground state. Majority of the members of this family are either superconductors or antiferromagnets. Therefore, CuFeSb may be used as an ideal source of spin polarized current in spin-transport devices involving pnictide and the chalcogenide superconductors. However, for that the Fermi surface of CuFeSb needs to be sufficiently spin polarized. In this paper we report direct measurement of transport spin polarization in CuFeSb by spin-resolved Andreev reflection spectroscopy. From a number of measurements using multiple superconducting tips we found that the intrinsic transport spin polarization in CuFeSb is high (˜47%). In order to understand the unique ground state of CuFeSb and the origin of large spin polarization at the Fermi level, we have evaluated the spin-polarized band structure of CuFeSb through first principles calculations. Apart from supporting the observed 47% transport spin polarization, such calculations also indicate that the Sb-Fe-Sb angles and the height of Sb from the Fe plane are strikingly different for CuFeSb than the equivalent parameters in other members of the same family thereby explaining the origin of the unique ground state of CuFeSb.

Currently, hydrogen is produced, almost exclusively, by waterelectrolysis. This method can take advantage of economies of scale and most established techniques of producing hydrogen. We developed a nanocomposite material system composed of CuFe2O4 and CuO semiconductor particles to produce hydrogen by electrolysis of water. The nanocomposite powder was prepared using the sol-gel method. Techniques of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and UV diffuse reflectance analysis were employed to characterize the synthesized products.The results confirmed the formation of CuFe2O4-CuO nanocomposite powder. The hydrogen evolution was successfully observed over the new hetero-system of CuFe2O4-CuO. The electrolysis activity depended on the concentration of CuO in the system. In order to enhance the hydrogen production, we further optimized the composite material versus the concentration of the compounds.

We investigate diffusive spin currents in Pt(20nm)/TbFe(10nm)/Cu(100nm) and Pt(20 nm)/TbFe(10nm)/ Cu(100nm)/Fe(3nm) stacks using time-resolved magneto-optic Kerr effect (TRMOKE) and time-domain thermoreflectance measurements. Our experiments are based on two hypothesis: (1) fast changes of magnetization due to laser excitation are transferred into spin accumulation, e.g., via electron-magnon scattering; the generated spin accumulation drives a diffusive spin current into adjacent normal metal layers; (2) electronic thermal transport through the ferromagnetic layer injects a spin current into adjacent normal metal layers, based on the spin-dependent Seebeck effect. We excite the Pt layer with ps-laser pulses. Resulting diffusive spin currents generate nonequilibrium magnetization in the Cu layer (sample I) and induce a precession of the magnetization of the Fe layer via spin transfer torque (sample II). Both responses are probed using TRMOKE. Prior experiments used [Co(0.2nm)/Pt(0.4nm)]x5/Co(0.2nm) instead of TbFe. The ferrimagnetic TbFe layer with introduces two major modifications: (1) slow demagnetization behavior, and (2) large thermal resistance. Hence, thermal spin transfer torques can be observed on significantly longer time scales. Financial support by the German Research Foundation under DFG-Grant No. KI 1893/1-1 and DFG-Grant No. AL 618/21-1 are kindly acknowledged.

We investigated the effect of an Mg-Al layer insertion at the bottom interface of epitaxial Fe/MgAl2O4/Fe(001) magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) on their spin-dependent transport properties. The tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) ratio and differential conductance spectra for the parallel magnetic configuration exhibited clear dependence on the inserted Mg-Al thickness. A slight Mg-Al insertion (thickness 0.2 nm) induced a reduction of TMR ratios and featureless conductance spectra, indicating a degradation of the bottom-Fe/MgAl2O4 interface. Therefore, a minimal Mg-Al insertion was found to be effective to maximize the TMR ratio for a sputtered MgAl2O4-based MTJ.

Full Text Available We investigated the effect of an Mg-Al layer insertion at the bottom interface of epitaxial Fe/MgAl2O4/Fe(001 magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs on their spin-dependent transport properties. The tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR ratio and differential conductance spectra for the parallel magnetic configuration exhibited clear dependence on the inserted Mg-Al thickness. A slight Mg-Al insertion (thickness 0.2 nm induced a reduction of TMR ratios and featureless conductance spectra, indicating a degradation of the bottom-Fe/MgAl2O4 interface. Therefore, a minimal Mg-Al insertion was found to be effective to maximize the TMR ratio for a sputtered MgAl2O4-based MTJ.

We report on structural, magnetic, and superconducting properties of the spin-valve multilayer system CoOx/Fe1/Cu/Fe2/In. For most of the thicknesses of the second iron layer dFe2 up to 2 nm, we have observed a full spin-valve effect for the superconducting current, i.e., a complete transition from the normal to the superconducting state by changing the mutual orientation of the magnetizations of the Fe1 and Fe2 layers. For dFe2<1 nm, the superconducting transition temperature TcP for the parallel orientation of magnetizations of the Fe1 and Fe2 layers is smaller than that for the antiparallel orientation TcAP, which corresponds to the direct spin-valve effect. For dFe2⩾1 nm, we have found the inverse spin-valve effect with ΔTc=TcAP-TcP<0. Further, in samples with a fixed thickness of the In layer, we have observed an oscillating dependence of its superconducting transition temperature Tc on dFe2. The analysis of the Tc(dFe2) dependence using the theory of the superconducting-ferromagnetic proximity effect has enabled determination of all microscopic parameters of the studied system. With these parameters, a satisfactory description of the sign-changing oscillating behavior of the spin-valve effect ΔTc(dFe2) has been obtained using a recent theory by Fominov [Ya. V. Fominov , Pis'ma Zh. Eksp. Teor. Fiz. 91, 329 (2010) [JETP Lett.JTPLA20021-364010.1134/S002136401006010X 91, 308 (2010)

Phase evolutions in Nd-Fe-B magnet/Cu systems have been explored with regard to Nd recycling. It was demonstrated that large scale phase separation into a ferromagnetic Fe(B)-rich ingot core with α-Fe main phase and a non-magnetic (Cu,Nd)-rich ingot rim takes place upon arc melting with Cu fractions ≥ 21.5 wt.-%. The re-solidification of the Nd{sub 2}Fe{sub 14}B magnet main phase is suppressed. The rim consists of the Cu{sub 2}Nd main phase and CuNd/Cu{sub 4}Nd minority phases in which Al traces from the magnetic material are gathered. Induction melting of such Nd-Fe-B/Cu mixtures can support the separation of these phase regions with very sharp boundaries. Main features of liquid phase separation and microstructure evolution have been interpreted on the basis of Nd-Fe-Cu phase diagram data. The key advantage with respect to Nd recycling from Nd-Fe-B permanent magnet scrap is the substantial accumulation of Nd in the (Cu,Nd)-rich region of the phase separated solidified specimen, which can be easily detached from the Fe-rich part by mechanical-magnetic treatments. Such portions contained up to ∼44 wt.-% Nd (25 at.-%) in first lab-scale experiments. Nd recovery from the (Cu,Nd)-rich fractions is possible by exploiting the large chemical property differences between the reactive rare earths elements and Cu. - Highlights: • phase evolution analysis in Nd-Fe-B magnet/Cu systems with regard to Nd recycling. • Cu ≥ 21 wt.-%, large scale phase separation- Fe(B)-rich ingot core, (Cu,Nd)-rich rim. • high Nd content (∼44 wt.-%) of (Cu,Nd)-rich region, mechanical-magnetic treatments.

The dielectric properties, dc and ac electrical resistivities of Mg substituted Ni-Cu ferrites with general formula Ni0.5Cu0.5-xMgxFe2O4 (0.0≤x≤0.5) have been investigated as a function of frequency, temperature and composition. ac resistivity of all the samples decreases with increase in the frequency exhibiting normal ferrimagnetic behavior. The frequency dependence of dielectric loss tangent showed a maximum in between 10 Hz and 1 kHz in all the ferrites. The conductivity relaxation of the charge carriers was examined using the electrical modulus formulism, and the results indicate the presence of the non-Debye type of relaxation in the prepared ferrites. Similar values of activation energies for dc conduction and for conductivity relaxation reveal that the mechanism of electrical conduction and dielectric polarization is the same in these ferrites. A single 'master curve' for normalized plots of all the modulus isotherms observed for a given composition indicates that the distribution of relaxation time is temperature independent. The saturation magnetization and coercivity as calculated from the hysteresis loop measurement show striking dependence on composition.

Atom order in the crystal structures of Yb2Cu2-xMg (x = 0.17; Mo2FeB2-type; P4/mbm; a = 0.75592(2) nm; c = 0.40282(1) nm) and Yb9+xCuMg4-x (x = 0.034; Hf9Mo4B-type; P63/mmc; a = 1.0169(5) nm; c = 1.0290(5) nm) was determined from powder and X-ray single-crystal counter data analyses supported by electron probe microanalyses. Among the group of the so-called κ-phases, Yb9+xCuMg4-x is the first representative formed by a lanthanoid element. The structure of this κ-phase can be viewed as a typical network of corner-connected empty Yb6-octahedra, which encompass Yb6Mg6-icosahedra (filled by a mix of Mg/Yb atoms) and Yb6-trigonal prisms centered by Cu atoms to complete the three-dimensional metal framework. From another point of view, the same structure is considered as built from infinite polyicosahedral columns of Yb9Mg4 composition with Cu atoms located in trigonal prismatic interstices, highlighting similarities with other Yb-rich Yb-Cu-Mg phases. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations classify Yb9CuMg4 as a polar intermetallic. Metallic-like behavior is inferred from the Sommerfeld constant, γ = 49.2 mJ/mol·K(2), derived from the electronic density of states, calculated at the Fermi level. DFT integration of the f-density of states indicates almost completely filled f-states, revealing 13.6 and 13.7 electrons in the valence band for Yb1 and Yb2 atoms, respectively, close to the Yb(2+) ground state ((1)S0) for both Yb atoms. Magnetic susceptibility data recorded on the same compound are consistent with a nonmagnetic divalent Yb(2+) state. Temperature-dependent heat capacity data display a metallic behavior characterized by a small Sommerfeld constant γ = 64.8 mJ/mol·K(2) and a rather low Debye temperature ΘD = 140 K as typical for soft materials.

The origin of large perpendicular magnetocrystalline anisotropy (PMCA) in Fe/MgO (001) is revealed by comparing Fe layers with and without the MgO. Although Fe-O p-d hybridization is weakly present, it cannot be the main origin of the large PMCA as claimed in previous study. Instead, perfect epitaxy of Fe on the MgO is more important to achieve such large PMCA. As an evidence, we show that the surface layer in a clean free-standing Fe (001) dominantly contributes to EMCA, while in the Fe/MgO, those by the surface and the interface Fe layers contribute almost equally. The presence of MgO does not change positive contribution from , wherease it reduces negative contribution from z2 |ℓX | yz > and .

Full Text Available Background: Heavy metals have been recognized as harmful environmental pollutant known to produce highly toxic effects on different organs and systems of both humans and animals. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the adsorption potential of chitosan for the removal of Pb(II, Fe(II and Cu(II ions from aqueous solutions. Methods: This study was conducted in laboratory scale. In this paper chitosan has been used as an adsorbent for the removal of Pb(II, Fe(II and Cu(II from aqueous solution. In batch tests, the effects of parameters like pH solution (1.0-8.0, initial metal concentrations (100-1000 mgL-1, contact time (5.0-150 min and adsorbent dose (1.0-7.0 g on the adsorption process were studied. Results: The results showed that the adsorption of Pb(II, Fe(II and Cu(II ions on chitosan strongly depends on pH. The experimental isothermal data were analyzed using the Langmuir and Freundlich equations and it was found that the removal process followed the Langmuir isotherm and maximum adsorption capacity for the adsorption of Pb(II, Fe(II and Cu(II ions by the chitosan were 55.5mg g−1, 71.4 mg g−1 and 59 mg g−1, respectively, under equilibrium conditions at 25±1 ºC. The adsorption process was found to be well described by the pseudo-second-order rate model. Conclusion: The obtained results showed that chitosan is a readily, available, economic adsorbent and was found suitable for removing Pb(II, Fe(II and Cu(II ions from aqueous solution.

We present a study of thermal stability of the top spin valve with a structure of seed Ta (5nm)/Co75Fe25 (5nm)/Cu (2.5nm)/Co75Fe25n (5nm)/Ir20 Mn80 (12nm)/cap Ta (8nm) deposited at room temperature by magnetron sputtering. A vibrating sample magnetometer fixed with a heater was used to record the magnetic hysteresis loops at variational temperatures and x-ray diffraction was performed to characterize the structure of the multilayer.The exchange field Hex and the coercivity of the pinned CoFe layer Hcp decrease monotonically with increasing temperature.The coercivity of the free CoFe layer Hcf in the spin valve shows a maximum at 498K.The temperature dependences of Hex,Hcp and Hcf have also been discussed.

Fe/MgO/Fe trilayers with a subnanometer MgO tunnel barrier were grown by molecular beam epitaxy. Longitudinal magnetooptic Kerr effect measurements confirmed the existence of the antiferromagnetic interlayer exchange coupling (IEC) between the Fe layers for 2 Ådetermined dependence of the dipolar coupling on the pillar diameter. Finally, magnetoresistance (MR) was measured as a function of MgO thickness (dMgO), and a non-zero MR was found for the MgO as thin as 3.4 Å. Extrapolation of the MR (dMgO) dependence to MR=0 allowed us to determine the length of the pinholes in our sample, which was estimated to be (3.2±0.5) Å.

Highly ordered composite nanowires with multilayer Ni/Cu and NiFe/Cu have been fabricated by pulsed electrodeposition into nanoporous alumina membrane. The diameter of wires can be easily varied by pore size of alumina, ranging from 30 to 100 nm. The applied potential and the duration of each potential square pulse determine the thickness of the metal layers. The nanowires have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), magnetic force microscopy (MFM), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) measurements. The MFM images indicate that every ferromagnetic layer separated by Cu layer was present as single isolated domain-like magnet. This technique has potential use in the measurement and application of magnetic nanodevices.

In this study, the corrosion behavior of Mg-Zn-Se and Mg-Zn-Cu alloys was investigated to evaluate their corrosion behavior related to use as implantable biomaterials. The corrosion behavior of these alloys and a commercially available Mg-Zn alloy were examined using static solution electrochemical testing, dynamic solution gravimetric testing, ion leaching testing, and microscopic evaluation. Fluctuations in the pH of the Dulbecco’s Modified Eagles Medium (DMEM) used for the gravimetric and ion leaching immersion testing were also recorded over the 30-day duration to assess whether the media conditions induced by the alloy degradation would permit for cellular survival. Weight loss experimentation and electrochemical tests revealed the Mg-Zn-Cu alloy to have the greatest corrosion rate. PMID:24465245

Effects of Cu underlayer on the structure of Fe50 Mn50 films were studied. Samples with a structure of Fe50 Mn50 (200 nm)/Cu(tCu) were prepared by magnetron sputtering on thermally oxidized silicon substrates at room temperature. The thickness of Cu underlayer varied from 0 to 60 nm in the intervals of 10 nm. High-vacuum annealing treatments, at different temperatures of 200, 300 and 400 ℃ for 1 h, respectively, on the Fe50 Mn50 (200 nm)/Cu(20 nm) thin films were performed. The surface morphologies and textures of the samples were measured by field emission scan electronic microscope (FE-SEM) and X-ray diffraction(XRD). Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Auger electron spectroscopy(AES) were used to analyze the compositional distribution. It is found that Cu underlayer has an obvious induce effect on (111) orientation of Fe50 Mn50 thin films. The induce effects of Cu on (111) orientation of Fe50 Mn50 changed with the increase of Cu layer thickness and the best effect was obtained at the Cu layer thickness of 20 nm. High-vacuum annealing treatments cause the migration of Mn atoms towards surface of the film and interface between Cu layer and substrate. With the increasing annealing temperature, migration of Mn atoms is more obvious, which leads to a Fe-riched Fe-Mn alloy film.

Highlights: • Ni2+ occupies A and B site, when Zn2+ is fully replaced by Ni2+, it goes to A site. • Change in distribution of cations has significant effect on magnetic properties. • Highest Ms value of 25.04 emu/g, was obtained for x = 0.60. - Abstract: Single phase nanocrystalline Zn{sub 0.8−x}Ni{sub x}Mg{sub 0.1}Cu{sub 0.1}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (x = 0.0−0.8), were synthesized by sol–gel auto-combustion method without post-preparation treatment and, effect of Ni content on structural and magnetic properties is studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), magnetic measurements and cation distribution. Scherrer’s grain diameter range between 23.5 and 35.1 nm. Experimental and theoretical lattice parameter values suggest that the estimated cation distribution is close to the real distribution. Change in Ni-content leads to variation in cation distribution at site A and B. Ni{sup 2+} ions occupy both A and B site, but when Zn{sup 2+} is fully replaced by Ni{sup 2+}, it totally goes to A site. Both coercivity measured at 50 Hz and quasi static coercivity value is found to increase with nickel content. Same trend is observed for anisotropy constant values. Best magnetization value of 25.04 emu/g was obtained for the specimen with x = 0.60. Variation of magnetic properties and other parameters (obtained via cation distribution) can be understood in terms of observed changes in distribution of cation(s) on A and B site.

The magnetization reversal of Fe/Cu(100) ultrathin films grown at room temperature is investigated by using an in situ magneto-optical Kerr effect polarimcter with a magnet that can rotate in a plane of incidence.There occur spin reorientation transitions from out-of-plane to in-plane magnetizations in 8 and 12 monolayers (ML) thick iron films.The coercive fields axe observed to be proportional to the reciprocal of the cosine with respect to the easy axis,suggesting that the domain-wall displacement plays a main role in the magnetization reversal process.

Thermochemical and phase diagram data in the Fe-Cu system have been critically evaluated by using phenomenological models for the Gibbs energy of various phases. A set of thermodynamic parameters more consistent with most of the selected experimental data than previous assess-ments has been obtained by a computerized least-squares method. Stable and metastable phase equilibria, T 0 curves, and thermodynamic properties are calculated with the optimized param-eters. The calculated liquid/face-centered cubic (fcc) T 0 curve and metastable liquid spinodal seem to permit an accurate prediction of maximum solid solubility obtained upon melt quenching in this system.

The compressibility of nanostructured Fe-Cu materials prepared by mechanical milling has been investigated by in-situ high-pressure x-ray diffraction using synchrotron radiation. It is found that the bulk modulus of both fcc-Cu and bcc-Fe phases decreases with decreasing grain sizes. The unstable...... ferromagnetic fcc-FeCu solid solution prepared by mechanical alloying has a bulk modulus of about 85 GPa, which is much smaller than the corresponding values for bulk fcc-Cu and bcc-Fe....

The new thermoluminophors LiF:Mg, Cu, P and CaF{sub 2}:Cu in form of pellets exhibit a significantly higher TL-response than the well-known dosimeters of the types TLD-100 (LiF:Mg, Ti), TLD-400 (CaF{sub 2}:Mn), TLD-900 (CaSO{sub 4}:Dy), etc. Furthermore, the thermoluminophor LiF:Mg, Cu, P shows besides its high sensitivity a good tissue equivalence and therefore, only a small variation of the dose response with the photon energy. The lower limits of detection of these new materials are about 5 {mu}Gy and 0.2 {mu}Gy resp. Therefore, short term measurements of absorbed dose can be realised in radiation fields at very low dose rates (environmental radiation, scattering radiation at medical equipment`s etc.) with an accuracy of {+-}10%. In the field of environmental monitoring the period of exposure can be limited to about 10 days. Using CaF{sub 2}:Cu detectors an exposure of 24 hours is sufficient for dose measurements with lower accuracy. The reusability of CaF{sub 2}:Cu pellets is guaranteed without loss of sensitivity independently of the application of different reading and annealing procedures. In the case of LiF:Mg, Cu, P detectors special procedures are needed in order to keep constant TL-properties. The results of dose measurements at low dose levels in different radiation fields demonstrate the advantages of these detector types. (orig.)

The high oxygen storage/release capability of the catalyst Ru is used to manipulate the interfacial electronic structure in spintronic materials to obtain perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). Insertion of an ultrathin Ru layer between the CoFeB and Ta layers in MgO/CoFeB/Ta/MgO films effectively induces PMA without annealing. Ru plays a catalytic role in Fe-O-Ta bonding and isolation at the metal-oxide interface to achieve moderate interface oxidation. In contrast, PMA cannot be obtained in the sample with a Mg insertion layer or without an insertion layer because of the lack of a catalyst. Our work would provide a new approach toward catalyst-induced PMA for future CoFeB-based spintronic device applications.

Ultrathin FeO(001) films were grown via molecular beam epitaxy on MgO(001) using reactive deposition of Fe. The growth conditions were adjusted toward stabilization of the wüstite phase, the existence of which was confirmed by means of conversion electron Mössbauer spectroscopy. It was shown how the metallic Fe overlayer modified the chemical state and the magnetic properties of the FeO oxide. Finally, we observed the exchange bias for an epitaxial Fe/FeO bilayer grown on MgO(001)

Full Text Available Nonstoichiometric series of Mg0.5−xCuxZn0.5Fe1.9O4−δ where x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2 and 0.25 has been synthesized by conventional solid state reaction route. The single phase spinel structure of the double sintered ferrites was confirmed by X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD. The ferrite series was studied in terms of DC electrical conductivity and thermoelectric power in the temperature ranging from room temperature to 300 °C and 400 °C, respectively. It was observed that DC electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient α decreased with the increase in x. DC electrical conductivity was found to decrease by about 4 orders. All the compositions showed a negative Seebeck coefficient exhibiting n-type semiconducting nature. From the above experimental results, activation energy and mobility of all the samples were estimated. Small polaron hopping conduction mechanism was suggested for the series of ferrites. Owing to their low conductivity the nonstoichiometric MgCuZn ferrites are the best materials for transformer core and high definition television deflection yokes.

The microstructure of surface peeling in finish rolled Cu-0.1Fe-0.03P sheet is analyzed by scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectroscope. Fe-rich areas of different contents are observed in the matrix. The stress distributions and strain characteristics at the interface between Cu matrix and Fe particle are studied by elastic-plastic finite element plane strain model. Larger Fe particles and higher deforming extent of finish rolling are attributed to the intense stress gradient and significant non-homogeneity equivalent strain at the interface and accelerate surface peeling of Cu-0.1Fe-0.03P lead frame sheet.

Layered double hydroxides(LDHs) with hydrotalcite-type structure containing Fe3+, Al3+ and Mg2+ were prepared by means of a coprecipitation method. The products were characterized by element analysis, X-ray powder diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. It was found that even if the molar ratio of n(Fe+Al)/n(Fe+Al+Mg)>0.33, yet a pure hydrotalcite-like compound(HTlc) phase was gained when n(Fe)/n(Al+Mg+Fe)≤0.30 and n(Al)/n(Al+Mg+Fe)≤0.30; the Al(OH)3 phase appeared in the products when n(Al)/n(Al+Mg+Fe)>0.30; and an amorphous phase emerged when n(Fe)/n(Al+Mg+Fe)>0.33. These results show that there is no concentration superposition effect between Fe3+ and Al3+ on the crystalline state of the produced samples. In our previous work, the concentration superposition effect between Zn2+ and Mg2+ in the synthesis of Zn-Mg-Al-LDHs was found. For the prepared Fe-Al-Mg-LDHs samples, the value of lattice parameter a is between 0.30-0.32 nm; and the value of lattice parameter c is between 2.30-2.47 nm, the basal spacing is in the range of 0.76-0.83 nm. When the ratio of n(Fe)/n(Al) is a constant, the values of a and c increase with the increase of the Mg2+ content of the produced samples. The mean particle size and the mean crystal grain were determined by virtue of a particle-size instrument, XRD-Scherrer formula and TEM method, respectively.

Full Text Available In this work, methyl orange (MO was effectively removed from aqueous solution with the calcined product of hydrothermal synthesized Mg/Fe layered double hydroxide (Mg/Fe-LDH. The structure, composition, morphology and textural properties of the Mg/Fe-LDH before and after adsorption were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption apparatus and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was confirmed that MO had been absorbed by calcined Mg/Fe-LDH which had strong interactions with MO. The adsorption of MO onto the Mg/Fe-LDH was systematically investigated by batch tests. The adsorption capacity of the Mg/Fe-LDH toward MO was found to be 194.9 mg • g−1. Adsorption kinetics and isotherm studies revealed that the adsorption of MO onto Mg/Fe-LDH was a spontaneous and endothermic process. These results indicate that Mg/Fe-LDH is a promising material for the removal of MO.

In this work, methyl orange (MO) was effectively removed from aqueous solution with the calcined product of hydrothermal synthesized Mg/Fe layered double hydroxide (Mg/Fe-LDH). The structure, composition, morphology and textural properties of the Mg/Fe-LDH before and after adsorption were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption apparatus and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was confirmed that MO had been absorbed by calcined Mg/Fe-LDH which had strong interactions with MO. The adsorption of MO onto the Mg/Fe-LDH was systematically investigated by batch tests. The adsorption capacity of the Mg/Fe-LDH toward MO was found to be 194.9 mg • g{sup −1}. Adsorption kinetics and isotherm studies revealed that the adsorption of MO onto Mg/Fe-LDH was a spontaneous and endothermic process. These results indicate that Mg/Fe-LDH is a promising material for the removal of MO.

Al-5.6Zn-3.0Mg-1.6Cu-1.1Li-0.24Cr alloys and Al-8.0Zn-2.4Mg-2.4Cu-1.1Li-0.18Zr alloys (mass fraction, %) were aged by different processes. The microstructure and mechanical properties were determined by transmission electron microscopy(TEM),tensile test and Vicker's hardness test. The experimental results show that the most signified hardening is obtained by double-ageing or multi-ageing for the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Li alloys. The yield strength and the elastic modulus of the Li-containing alloys have relationships with ageing processes. The elastic modulus of Li-containing alloys decreases with the increment of precipitates though it is higher than that of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy.

Magnetic properties and nanostructures of FePtCu:C thin films with FePt underlayers (ULs) are studied. The effect of FePt ULs on the orientation and magnetic properties of the thin films are investigated by adjusting FePt UL thicknesses from 2nm to 14nm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) scans reveal that the orientation of the films is dependent on FePt UL thickness. For a 5-nm FePtCu:C nanocomposite thin film with a 2-nm FePt UL, the coercivity is 6.5 KOe, the correlation length is 59nm, the desired face-centred-tetragonal (fct) ordered structure [L10 phase] is formed and the c axis normal to the film plane [(001) texture] is obtained. These results indicate that the better orientation and magnetic properties of the films can be tuned by decreasing the thickness of the FePt UL.

In recycling of steel scraps, the accumulation of tramp element in steel has been one of serious problems. Because copper in steel causes hot-shortness, the copper content of steel scraps is strictly adjusted under the upper limiting value in steelmaking process. In addition, recycling of steel scrap is necessary for energy savings and to realize a recycling-oriented society. In the present study,it was found that addition of boron could separate a single liquid in Fe-Cu system into Fe-rich and Cu-rich phases. Equilibrium experiments in Fe-Cu-B ternary system at 1873 and 1523 K showed that the copper content in Fe-rich phase decreased to 4.3 mass%. Subsequently, equilibrium experiments in Fe-Cu-Ag-B system were carried out and the copper was observed to be distributed between Fe-B and Ag phases. The distribution ratio of [mass%Cu](in Ag) / [mass%Cu](in Fe) was about 6 at 1873 K, regardless of copper content. It was found that the copper content of iron could be decreased by using silver as the solvent.

Oxidative degradation of aqueous organic contaminants 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-enhanced bimetallic Cu-Fe system in the presence of dissolved oxygen was investigated. The proposed process was applied for the pH range of 3~7 with the degradation efficiency of 2,4-DCP and EDTA varying within 10 %, and achieved at 100 % degradation of 40 mg L(-1) 2,4-DCP in 1 h, at the initial pH of 3, 25 g L(-1) of bimetallic Fe-Cu powder (WCu/WFe = 0.01289) and initial EDTA of 0.57 mM. However, the removal efficiency of 2,4-DCP in control tests were 7.52 % (Cu-Fe/O2 system) and 84.32 % (EDTA-enhanced Fe/O2 process), respectively, after 3 h, reaction. The proposed main mechanism, involves the in situ generation of H2O2 by the electron transfer from Fe(0) to O2 which was enhanced by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and the in situ generation of ·OH via advanced oxidation reaction. Accordingly, 2,4-DCP was attacked by ·OH to achieve complete dechlorination and low molecular weight organic acids, even mineralized. Systematic studies on the effects of initial EDTA and 2,4-DCP concentration, Cu-Fe dosing, Cu content, and pH revealed that these effects need to be optimized to avoid the excessive consumption of ·OH and new EDTA and heavy metal Cu pollution.

FeCoSiB/Cu/FeCoSiB sandwich layers were deposited on flexible substrate to develop flexible stress/strain sensors. The influence of stress on the impedance of the multilayers is reported. The results show that the variation of the impedance increases with the increase in deflection of the free end of the cantilever. A relative change in impedance of 6.4% is obtained in the FeCoSiB(1.5 {mu}m)/Cu(0.25 {mu}m)/FeCoSiB(1.5 {mu}m) sandwich layers at 1 MHz with deflection of 2 mm. The stress impedance effects are sensitive to the frequency of the current and the thickness of both FeCoSiB and Cu layers. The stress impedance effect increases with the increase in the thickness of FeCoSiB or Cu layers. The stress impedance effect increases slightly with the increase in frequency and decreases with the further increase in frequency, which can be understood by the stress and frequency-dependent permeability of magnetic films. - Research highlights: We deposited FeCoSiB/Cu/FeCoSiB multilayer on flexible substrate. We studied the stress impedance effect of FeCoSiB/Cu/FeCoSiB multilayer. Stress impedance effect increases with thickness of both FeCoSiB and Cu layer. Stress impedance effect is dependent on current frequency. Results are understood using stress and frequency-dependent permeability.

Both the Fe II UV emission in the 2000- 3000 A region [Fe II (UV)] and resonance emission line complex of Mg II at 2800 A are prominent features in quasar spectra. The observed Fe II UV/ Mg II emission ratios have been proposed as means to measure the buildup of the Fe abundance relative to that of the alpha-elements C, N, O, Ne and Mg as a function of redshift. The current observed ratios show large scatter and no obvious dependence on redshift. Thus, it remains unresolved whether a dependence on redshift exists and whether the observed Fe II UV/ Mg II ratios represent a real nucleosynthesis diagnostic. We have used our new 830-level model atom for Fe+ in photoionization calculations, reproducing the physical conditions in the broad line regions of quasars. This modeling reveals that interpretations of high values of Fe II UV/ Mg II are sensitive not only to Fe and Mg abundance, but also to other factors such as microturbulence, density, and properties of the radiation field. We find that the Fe II UV/ Mg II...

An electronic transition of iron in magnesiowuestite has been studied with synchrotron Moessbauer and X-ray emission spectroscopies under high pressures. Synchrotron Moessbauer studies show that the quadrupole splitting disappears and the isomer shift drops significantly across the spin-paring transition of iron in (Mg{sub 0.75},Fe{sub 0.25})O between 62 and 70 GPa, whereas X-ray emission spectroscopy of the Fe-K{sub {beta}} fluorescence lines in dilute (Mg{sub 0.95},Fe{sub 0.05})O also confirms that a high-spin to low-spin transition occurs between 46 GPa and 55 GPa. Based upon current results and percolation theory, we reexamine the high-pressure phase diagram of (Mg,Fe)O and find that iron-iron exchange interaction plays an important role in stabilizing the high-spin state of iron in FeO-rich (Mg,Fe)O.

Full Text Available A tetragonally distorted FeCo structure is obtained in Fe/Co multilayers epitaxially grown on Au50Cu50 buffer using MgO single crystal substrates as a result of the lattice mismatch between the buffer and the FeCo ferromagnetic layer. The presence of large magnetic anisotropy energy (MAE of the order of 1 MJ/m3 has been confirmed by ferromagnetic resonance. Furthermore, the effect of carbon (C doping to maintain the tetragonal distortion throughout the thickness of 3 nm FeCo has been investigated. Our study shows that FeCo alloys maintain large magnetic moment and possess high MAE properties that are required for designing permanent magnets.

Within the UK, research has concentrated on alloys of composition Al-2.5%Li-1.2%Cu-0.7%Mg-0.12%Zr (8090) which is a medium strength replacement for 2014. Ageing this lithium-containing alloy at an elevated temperature produces a mixture of phases which are, in order of importance, δ'(Al3Li), S(Al2CuMg) and T1(Al2CuLi). Changing the magnesium content of the alloy changes the relative proportions of the latter two phases, and also influences the volume fraction of δ' that is produced. A systema...

Full Text Available Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb., a typical fruit of the Brazilian Cerrado, is an important source of micronutrients and fatty acids. In this work, a new approach for the acid digestion (using H2SO4, HNO3 and H2O2 of pequi oil samples and the determination of Cu, Fe, Zn and Mn by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (F AAS was employed. Capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE was used for free fatty acid (FFA determination after simple and fast extraction with heated ethanol. Good results regarding precision (RSD < 10%, in most cases, sensitivity and adequate LOD and LOQ values were obtained. The accuracy was evaluated using spike tests and the recoveries were from 97 to 107%. The analytes were investigated in four different pequi oil samples. Fe was the trace element with the highest concentration (from 1.99 to 10.3 mg/100 g, followed by Zn, Mn and Cu (1.15 to 3.19, 0.42 to 0.91 and 0.31 to 0.56 mg/100 g, respectively. The main FFA found were oleic acid and palmitic acid (1.61 to 10.7 and 0.82 to 2.69 g/100 g, respectively, while linoleic acid (0.50 g/100 g was detected in only one sample. The pequi oil chemical composition showed good characteristics to be used as a food additive, in cosmetic formulations and for traditional medicine.

We report neutron scattering and resistivity results on the Cu-substitution effects in FeTe0.5Se0.5 with a Tc of ~15 K. With a 2 % Cu substitution, the Tc is reduced to 8 K, and for Fe0.9Cu0.1Te0.5Se0.5, it is not superconducting. In Fe0.9Cu0.1Te0.5Se0.5, the low-energy magnetic excitations around the in-plane wave vector (0.5, 0.5) is greatly enhanced. Upon heating, the magnetic scattering is weakened, which is different from the temperature dependences of the Cu-free and 2 % Cu-doped sample. The spectral weight reduction upon warming decreases with increasing energy in the 10 % Cu-doped sample. We take these as evidences that Cu drives the system towards localization, which is confirmed by our resistivity data. These observations probably explain why superconductivity is absent in the Cu-doped BaFe2As2 system and demonstrate the inadequacy of the rigid-band shift model on the substitution effects of the 3 d transition metals. The work is supported by the U.S. Department of Energy.

We have studied the magnetic properties of two amorphous alloy ribbons Fe72Cr6Si4Nb5B12Ag1 (FCSNB-Ag) and Fe72Cr6Si4Nb5B12Cu1 (FCSNB-Cu), prepared by using a melt-spinning technique. Magnetization (M) measurements for various temperatures (T) and magnetic fields (H) indicate that ferromagnetic...

The thermal aging of a Cu-45Ni-4Fe, Cu-34Ni-11Fe and Cu-33Ni-22Fe alloys tempered from 1173 K have been studied from Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and microhardness measurements. The analysis of DSC curves, from room temperature to 950 K, shows the presence of one exothermic reaction associated to the formation of FeNi{sub 3} phase nucleating from a modulate structure, and one endothermic peak attributed to dissolution of this phase. Kinetic parameters were obtained using the usual Avrami-Erofeev equation, modified Kissinger method and integrated kinetic functions. Microhardness measurements confirmed the formation and dissolution of the FeNi{sub 3} phase. (Author)

A study was conducted: (1) to develop rapid solidification processed (RSP) dispersoid-containing Al-3Cu-2Li-1Mg-0.2Zr alloys as substitutes for titanium alloys and commercial 2XXX aluminum alloys for service to at least 150 C; and (2) to develop RSP Al-4Li-Cu-Mg-Zr alloys as substitutes for high-strength commercial 7XXX alloys in ambient-temperature applications. RSP Al-3Cu-2Li-1Mg-0.2Zr alloys have density-normalized yield stresses at 150 C up to 52% larger than that of 2124-T851 and up to 30% larger than that of Ti-6Al-4V. Strength at 150 C in these alloys is provided by thermally stable delta' (Al3Li), T1 (Al2LiCu), and S' (Al2CuMg) precipitates. Density-normalized yield stresses of RSP Al-3Cu-2Li-1Mg-0.2Zr alloys are up to 100% larger than that of 2124-T851 and equivalent to that of Al-8Fe-4Ce at 260 C. Strength in the RSP alloys at 260 C is provided by incoherent dispersoids and subboundary constituent particles such as T1 and S. The RSP alloys are attractive substitutes in less than or = 100-h exposures for 2xxx and Al-4Fe-Ce alloys up to 260 C and for titanium alloys up to 150 C. RSP Al-4Li-Cu-Mg-Zr alloys have ambient-temperature yield and ultimate tensile stresses similar to that of 7050-T7651, and are 14% less dense. RSP Al-4Li-0.5Cu-1.5Mg-0.2Zr has a 20% higher specific yield stress, 40% higher specific elastic modulus, and superior corrosion resistance compared to the properties of 7050-T7651. Strength in the Al-4Li-Cu-Mg-Zr alloy class is primarily provided by the substructure and delta' precipitates and is independent of Cu:Mg ratio. Improvements in fracture toughness and transverse-orientation properties in both alloy classes depend on improved melt practices to eliminate oxide inclusions which are incorporated into the consolidated forms.

The influence of coarse Cu-bearing particles, matrix and subgrain boundary precipitates on the stress corrosion susceptibility of the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys was investigated. The strength of 7150 alloy is about 15 MPa higher than that of 7010 alloy.The 7010 alloy exhibits higher resistance to stress corrosion cracking as compared with the 7150 alloy. The coarse Cu-bearing particles are detrimental to the resistance to stress corrosion cracking. The increase of size of matrix and subgrain boundary precipitates decreases the susceptibility of stress corrosion. The anodic dissolution and hydrogen embrittlement govern the cracking process. The severity of stress corrosion cracking is shown to be related to the coarse Cu-bearing particles, matrix and subgrain precipitates in Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys.

The aim of the current study was to compare the thermoluminescent dosimeters LiF:Mg,Ti (TLD-100) and LiF:Mg,Cu,P (MCP) data, which were acquired by the Federal Technological University - Parana. Tests were realized, for this purpose, such as: sensitivity (only one MCP TLD did not present results within the limit range), linearity (whose MCP result was better than the TLD-100 one), energy dependence (TLD-100 presented lower variation than MCP TLD) and reproducibility (whose TLD-100 results were better than the MCP ones). The results from both dosimeters show that these TLDs attend radiodiagnostic dosimetry criteria, however MCP had more satisfactory results. (author)

Nanoparticles of Ni0.35Cu0.15Zn0.5Fe2O4 and Mg0.35Cu0.15Zn0.5Fe2O4, have been synthesized by citrate precursor method. Then some of the prepared samples have been irradiated by γ-rays of 60Co radioactive source at room temperature with doses of 1 Mrad and 2 Mrad, at a dose rate of 0.1 Mrad/h to study the effect of γ-rays irradiation on some structural, magnetic and electrical properties of the samples. The X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and vibrating sample magnetometer measurements have been used to investigate the samples. The XRD results show that the irradiation has caused a decrease in the crystallite size and the measured density and an increase in the porosity, specific surface area, and microstrain in the case of Ni-Cu-Zn ferrite whereas in the case of Mg-Cu-Zn ferrite the reverse trend has been noticed. The lattice constant of the investigated samples has been increased with the increase of irradiation due to the conversion of Fe3+ (0.67 Å) to Fe2+ (0.76 Å). The magnetization results show an increase in saturation and remnant magnetizations for the two prepared ferrites after γ-rays irradiation. The main reason of this behavior is most probably due to the redistribution of the cations between A and B sites. The cation distribution has been proposed such that the values of theoretical and experimental magnetic moment are identical and increase as the magnetization increases. Moreover, a theoretical estimation of the lattice constant has been calculated on the basis of the proposed cation distribution for each sample and compared with the corresponding experimental values obtained by XRD analysis; where they have been found in a good agreement with each other. This can be considered as another confirmation of the validity of the cation distribution. Moreover, the cation distribution is thought to play an important role in increasing the values of dc conductivity of all samples

Manganese (Mn) and zirconium (Zr) are two common alloying additions in magnesium (Mg) alloys. Both of these elements, while having low solubilities in Mg, each serve a specific purpose when added to Mg. Mn is often added to improve the extrudability and formability of Mg alloys and in aluminium (Al) containing Mg alloys to produce the Al8(Mn,Fe)5 phase which is able to remove iron (Fe) impurities to dramatically improve the corrosion resistance. Zr is incorporated in Mg mainly due to its uniq...

In this paper, we present theoretical and experimental studies about the surface plasmon resonance effects on the magneto-optical activity of Cu/NiFe/Cu nanostructures as a function of layers thickness and light incident angle. Device fabrication was done by an oblique deposition technique with RF magnetron sputtering to carefully cover fine step thickness variation of all constituted layers. Angular dependent transverse Kerr response of samples was measured in the Kretschmann configuration at a fixed wavelength of 632 nm. At an optimum layer thickness and incident angle, significant amplification of the transverse Kerr effect was observed. Enhancement in the transverse Kerr effect can be realized by hybridization of surface plasmon excitation and cavity resonance in the plasmonic nanostructure. Experimental results were in qualitative agreement with modeling based on the 4×4 transfer matrix formalism.

Full Text Available We report on the fabrication and properties of soft magnetic powder cores with superior mechanical strength as well as low core loss (W. Development of such cores is important for applications in automobiles/devices operating in motion. High saturation magnetic flux density (Bs Fe-Si-B-P-Cu powder was sintered with Fe55C10B5P10Ni15Mo5 metallic glass (MG powder in its supercooled liquid state by spark plasma sintering. The sintered cores are made from the nanocrystalline powder particles of Fe-Si-B-P-Cu alloy, which are separated through a magnetic Fe55C10B5P10Ni15Mo5 MG alloy. Low W of ∼ 2.2 W/kg (at 1T and 50 Hz, and high fracture strength (yielding stress ∼500 MPa, which is an order of magnitude higher than the conventional powder cores, were obtained. Stronger metal-metal bonding and magnetic nature of MG binder (which is very different than the conventional polymer based binders are responsible for the superior mechanical and magnetic properties. The MG binder not only helps in improving the mechanical properties but it also enhances the overall Bs of the core.

Full Text Available In this paper, spin-dependent electrical transport properties are investigated in a single-crystal magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ which consists of two ferromagnetic Fe electrodes separated by an MgO insulating barrier. These properties contain electric current, spin polarization and tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR. For this purpose, spin-dependent Hamiltonian is described for Δ1 and Δ5 bands in the transport direction. The transmission is calculated by Green's function formalism based on a single-band tight-binding approximation. The transport properties are investigated as a function of the barrier thickness in the limit of coherent tunneling. We have demonstrated that dependence of the TMR on the applied voltage and barrier thickness. Our numerical results may be useful for designing of spintronic devices. The numerical results may be useful in designing of spintronic devices.

Full Text Available We report the investigation of temperature dependent magnetic properties of FePt and FePt(30/M(Cu,C/Fe(5 trilayer thin films prepared by using magnetron sputtering technique at ambient temperature and postannealed at different temperatures. L10 ordering, hard magnetic properties, and thermal stability of FePt films are improved with increasing postannealing temperature. In FePt/M/Fe trilayer, the formation of interlayer exchange coupling between magnetic layers depends on interlayer materials and interface morphology. In FePt/C/Fe trilayer, when the C interlayer thickness was about 0.5 nm, a strong interlayer exchange coupling between hard and soft layers was achieved, and saturation magnetization was enhanced considerably after using interlayer exchange coupling with Fe. In addition, incoherent magnetization reversal process observed in FePt/Fe films changes into coherent switching process in FePt/C/Fe films giving rise to a single hysteresis loop. High temperature magnetic studies up to 573 K reveal that the effective reduction in the coercivity decreases largely from 34 Oe/K for FePt/Fe film to 13 Oe/K for FePt/C(0.5/Fe film demonstrating that the interlayer exchange coupling seems to be a promising approach to improve the stability of hard magnetic properties at high temperatures, which is suitable for high-performance magnets and thermally assisted magnetic recording media.

FePt (50 rim) and [FePt(a nm)/MgO(b nm)]5/glass (a=1, 2, 3; b=1, 2, 3)films Were prepared by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering technique, and then were annealed at 600℃ for 30 min. The effect of MgO layer thickness on the structures and magnetic properties of the FePt/MgO multilayers was investigated. The coercivities and inter-grain interactions of the FePt/MgO films were decreased, yet the degree of (001) texturing drastically increased with the increase in MgO layer thickness when the FePt layer thickness was fixed. Thus, the FePt/MgO films with appropriate coercivities, high perpendicular anisotropy, and weak inter- grain interactions were obtained by controlling the MgO layer thickness. Overall, these results indicate that the FePt/MgO nanos- tructured films are promising candidates for future high-density perpendicular recording media. C 2008 University of Science and Technology Beijing. All fights reserved.

Accurate sex assignment of ancient human remains usually relies on the availability of coxal bones or well-preserved DNA. Iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) stable isotope compositions ((56)Fe/(54)Fe and (65)Cu/(63)Cu, respectively) were recently measured in modern human blood, and an unexpected result was the discovery of a (56)Fe-depletion and a (65)Cu-enrichment in men's blood compared to women's blood. Bones, being pervasively irrigated by blood, are expected to retain the (56)Fe/(54)Fe and (65)Cu/(63)Cu signature of blood, which in turn is useful for determining the sex of ancient bones. Here, we report the (56)Fe/(54)Fe, (65)Cu/(63)Cu, and (66)Zn/(64)Zn ratios from a suite of well-preserved phalanxes (n = 43) belonging to individuals buried in the 17th and 18th centuries at the necropolis of Saint-Laurent de Grenoble, France, and for which the sex was independently estimated from pelvic bone morphology. The metals were purified from the bone matrix by liquid chromatography on ion exchange resin and the isotope compositions were measured by multiple-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The results show that, as expected from literature data on blood, male bone iron is depleted in (56)Fe and enriched in (65)Cu relative to female. No sex difference is found in the (66)Zn/(64)Zn ratios of bone. The concentration and isotopic data show no evidence of soil contamination. Four samples of five (77%) can be assigned their correct sex, a result comparable to sex assignment using Fe and Cu isotopes in blood (81%). Isotopic analysis of metals may therefore represent a valid method of sex assignment applicable to incomplete human remains.

The natural aging (NA) and artificial aging (AA) behavior of Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloys with different Mg/Si ratios and Cu additions were systematically investigated by means of hardness test, atom probe tomography, transmission electron microscopy, and Monte Carlo simulation. The Si-rich low-Cu alloys displayed higher hardness compared to the Mg-rich equivalents because Si atoms play a dominant role in clustering of solute atoms during both natural and artificial aging. In the high-Cu alloys, Cu did not obviously change the cluster distribution during NA, but significantly refines the clusters and precipitates due to the strong interaction of Cu atoms with Mg atoms during AA. In contrast to the low-Cu alloys, the Mg-rich high-Cu alloys exhibit higher hardness in the early and over-aged stages of artificial aging, with similar or slightly higher hardness in the peak aging condition compared to their Si-rich counterparts. Three types of precipitates ( β″, Q', and L) are favored in the high-Cu alloys. The Mg-rich high-Cu alloy has more L phase, while the Si-rich variant is abundant in Q' phase. The negative effect of NA on subsequent AA behavior is less dependent on Mg/Si ratio in the high-Cu alloys due to a synergistic action of the residual Si and Cu atoms, but is closely related to Mg/Si ratio in low-Cu alloys.

Magnetic domain evolution at the spin reorientation transition (SRT) of (Fe/Ni)/Cu/Ni/Cu(001) is investigated using photoemission electron microscopy. While the (Fe/Ni) layer exhibits the SRT, the interlayer coupling of the perpendicularly magnetized Ni layer to the (Fe/Ni) layer serves as a virtual perpendicular magnetic field exerted on the (Fe/Ni) layer. We find that the perpendicular virtual magnetic field breaks the up-down symmetry of the (Fe/Ni) stripe domains to induce a net magnetization in the normal direction of the film. Moreover, as the virtual magnetic field increases to exceed a critical field, the stripe domain phase evolves into a bubble domain phase. Although the critical field depends on the Fe film thickness, we show that the area fraction of the minority domain exhibits a universal value that determines the stripe-to-bubble phase transition.

With the aid of ab initio calculations, a realistic interatomic potential was constructed for the Mg-Cu-Y ternary system under the proposed formalism of smoothed and long-range second-moment approximation of tight-binding. Taking the potential as the starting base, an atomistic computation/simulation route was developed for designing favored and optimized compositions for Mg-Cu-Y metallic glass formation. Simulations revealed that the physical origin of metallic glass formation is the collapse of crystalline lattice when solute concentration exceeds a critical value, thus leading to predict a hexagonal region in the Mg-Cu-Y composition triangle, within which metallic glass formation is energetically favored. It is proposed that the hexagonal region can be defined as the intrinsic glass formation region, or quantitative glass formation ability of the system. Inside the hexagonal region, the driving force for formation of each specific glassy alloy was further calculated and correlated with its forming ability in practice. Calculations pinpointed the optimized stoichiometry in the Mg-Cu-Y system to be Mg64Cu16Y20, at which the formation driving force reaches its maximum, suggesting that metallic glasses designed to have compositions around Mg64Cu16Y20 are most stable or easiest to obtain. The predictions derived directly from the atomistic simulations are supported by experimental observations reported so far in the literature. Furthermore, Honeycutt-Anderson analysis indicated that pentagonal bipyramids (although not aggregating to form icosahedra) dominate in the local structure of the Mg-Cu-Y metallic glasses. A microscopic picture of the medium-range packing can then be described as an extended network of the pentagonal bipyramids, entangled with the fourfold and sixfold disclination lines, jointly fulfilling the space of the metallic glasses.

Dry sliding friction between the polycrystalline Al59 Cu25.5 Fe12.5 B3 quasicrystals(QCs) and coating of thediamond-like carbon(DLC) was carried out by self-made tribometer under different conditions. The influences of four parameters(temperature, sliding velocity, applied load, atmosphere) on friction of quasicrystal surface were studied. Microstructure of quasicrystal, morphology of worn surface, and wear debris were observed by scanning electron microscope(SEM). The results show that for QCs, the friction coefficient and the roughness of worn surface is influenced by the parameters, especially greatly by the temperature. With increasing the applied load and sliding velocity, the friction coefficient decreases. The dominant wear mechanism at 350 ℃ is delamination for QCs. The cracks forms on the worn surface during friction. Moreover, phase transformation is not observed on worn surface of QCs at 350 ℃.

To constrain the thermodynamics and melting relations of the siderite-magnesite (FeCO3-MgCO3) system, 27 piston cylinder experiments were conducted at 3.5 GPa and 1170-1575 °C. Fe-rich compositions were also investigated with 13 multi-anvil experiments at 10, 13.6 and 20 GPa, 1500-1890 °C. At 3.5 GPa, the solid solution siderite-magnesite coexists with melt over a compositional range of X Mg (=Mg/(Mg + Fetot)) = 0.38-1.0, while at ≥10 GPa solid solution appears to be complete. At 3.5 GPa, the system is pseudo-binary because of the limited stability of siderite or liquid FeCO3, Fe-rich carbonates decomposing at subsolidus conditions to magnetite-magnesioferrite solid solution, graphite and CO2. Similar reactions also occur with liquid FeCO3 resulting in melt species with ferric iron components, but the decomposition of the liquid decreases in importance with pressure. At 3.5 GPa, the metastable melting temperature of pure siderite is located at 1264 °C, whereas pure magnesite melts at 1629 °C. The melting loop is non-ideal on the Fe side where the dissociation reaction resulting in Fe3+ in the melt depresses melting temperatures and causes a minimum. Over the pressure range of 3.5-20 GPa, this minimum is 20-35 °C lower than the (metastable) siderite melting temperature. By merging all present and previous experimental data, standard state (298.15 K, 1 bar) thermodynamic properties of the magnesite melt (MgCO3L) end member are calculated and the properties of (Fe,Mg)CO3 melt fit by a regular solution model with an interaction parameter of -7600 J/mol. The solution model reproduces the asymmetric melting loop and predicts the thermal minimum at 1240 °C near the siderite side at X Mg = 0.2 (3.5 GPa). The solution model is applicable to pressures reaching to the bottom of the upper mantle and allows calculation of phase relations in the FeO-MgO-O2-C system.

Induration process of oxidized pellets involves the oxidation of Fe3 O4 and re-crystallization of Fe2 O3 .The oxidation process of Fe3 O4 is significant for pellets to obtain better ambient strength.Thus,the effect of MgO on oxidation process of Fe3 O4 was investigated.The unreacted core model was applied to analyze the oxidizing indura-tion process of pellets.The experimental results show that MgO plays a negative role in the oxidation process of Fe3 O4 .The oxidation rate of Fe3 O4 in MgO-fluxed pellets (95.0% Fe3 O4+5.0% MgO)is slower than that in standard acid pellets (100% Fe3 O4 ).The relation between oxidation ratio of Fe3 O4 and time was calculated based on the unreacted core model for both MgO-fluxed pellets and standard acid pellets.According to verification experi-ments,the values calculated by model coincide well with the experimental values.Therefore,the unreacted core model could be applied to describe the oxidizing induration process of pellets.

The metastable liquid phase separation and rapid solidification of Cu60Fe30Co10 ternary peritectic alloy were investigated by using the drop tube technique and the differential scanning calorimetry method. It was found that the critical temperature of metastable liquid phase separation in this alloy is 1623.5 K, and the two separated liquid phases solidify as Cu(Fe,Co) and Fe(Cu,Co) solid solutions, respectively. The undercooling and cooling rate of droplets processed in the drop tube increase with the decrease of their diameters. During the drop tube processing, the structural morphologies of undercooled droplets are strongly dependent on the cooling rate. With the increase of the cooling rate, Fe(Cu,Co) spheres are refined greatly and become uniformly dispersed in the Cu-rich matrix. The calculations of Marangoni migration velocity (VM) and Stokes motion velocity (VS) of Fe(Cu,Co) droplets indicated that Marangoni migration contributes more to the coarsening and congregation of the minor phase during free fall. At the same undercooling, the VM/VS ratio increases drastically as Fe(Cu,Co) droplet size decreases. On the other hand, a larger undercooling tends to increase the VM/VS value for Fe(Cu,Co) droplets with the same size.

The metastable liquid phase separation and rapid solidification of Cu60Fe30Co10 ternary peritectic alloy were investigated by using the drop tube technique and the differential scanning calorimetry method. It was found that the critical temperature of metastable liquid phase separation in this alloy is 1623.5 K, and the two sepa- rated liquid phases solidify as Cu(Fe,Co) and Fe(Cu,Co) solid solutions, respec- tively. The undercooling and cooling rate of droplets processed in the drop tube increase with the decrease of their diameters. During the drop tube processing, the structural morphologies of undercooled droplets are strongly dependent on the cooling rate. With the increase of the cooling rate, Fe(Cu,Co) spheres are refined greatly and become uniformly dispersed in the Cu-rich matrix. The calculations of Marangoni migration velocity (VM) and Stokes motion velocity (VS) of Fe(Cu,Co) droplets indicated that Marangoni migration contributes more to the coarsening and congregation of the minor phase during free fall. At the same undercooling, the VM/VS ratio increases drastically as Fe(Cu,Co) droplet size decreases. On the other hand, a larger undercooling tends to increase the VM/VS value for Fe(Cu,Co) drop- lets with the same size.

Trilayers and multilayers containing ferromagnetic 80NiFe,Co layers separated by nonmagnetic Cu layers were fabricated using the magnetron sputtering method. For 80NiFe(60 Å)/Cu (d Cu)/ Co(60 Å) trilayer films, the MR ratio and the exchange coupling strength oscillated with increasing dCu. For 80NiFe(60 Å)/Cu (d Cu)/ Co(60 Å)/Cu (d Cu)/ 80NiFe(60 Å) multilayer films, however, the exchange coupling between the bottom 80NiFe and the Co layers oscillated, while that between the Co and the top 80NiFe layers decreased monotonously with increasing dCu. Consequently, antiferromagnetic exchange coupling was not achieved between the Co(60 Å) and the top magnetic layer. The reason for the nonexistence of antiferromagnetic exchange coupling is discussed by taking into account the rougher surface of the Co(60 Å) layer caused by the growth of the different crystalline structures.

Metals such as lead (Pb), magnesium (Mg), and iron (Fe) are ubiquitous in the environment as a result of natural occurrence and anthropogenic activities. Although Mg, Fe and others are considered essential elements, high level of exposure has been associated with severe adverse health effects including cardiovascular, hematological, nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic, and neurologic abnormalities in humans. In the present study we hypothesized that Mg, Pb, and Fe are cytotoxic, genotoxic and neurotoxic, and their toxicity is mediated through oxidative stress and alteration in protein expression. To test the hypothesis, we used the pheochromocytoma (PC-12) cell line as a neuro cell model and performed the LDH assay for cell viability, Comet assay for DNA damage, Western blot for oxidative stress, and HPLC-MS to assess the concentration levels of neurological biomarkers such as glutamate, dopamine (DA), and 3-methoxytyramine (3-MT). The results of this study clearly show that Mg, Pb, and Fe, respectively in the form of MgSO4, Pb(NO3)2, FeCl2, and FeCl3 induce cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity in PC-12 cells. In addition, exposure to these metallic compounds caused significant changes in the concentration levels of glutamate, dopamine, and 3-MT in PC-12 cells. Taken together the findings suggest that MgSO4, Pb(NO3)2, FeCl2, and FeCl3 have the potential to induce substantial toxicity to PC-12 cells. PMID:24942330

A novel period of the interlayer exchange coupling as a function of Cr thickness is observed in epitaxial Fe/Cr/Fe (001) sandwiches capped with MgO. This additional period, equal to 3 chromium atomic layers, vanishes when the capping is Cr. A strong oscillation of the magnetic coupling is also observed as a function of the thickness of the Fe layer next to the MgO capping layer. This effect is attributed to the formation of quantum well states in this Fe layer. It is believed that this confinement modifies the reflection coefficient at the Cr/Fe interface for electrons of a particular symmetry and leads to the new coupling period which is linked to the Fermi surface topology of chromium.

A greener method to fabricate novel core (Fe or Cu)-shell (noble metals) nanocomposites of transition metals such as Fe and Cu and noble metals such as Au, Pt, Pd, and Ag using aqueous ascorbic acid is described. Transition metal salts such as Cu and Fe were reduced using ascor...

Full Text Available The results of studies on the use of magnesium alloy in modern cored wire injection method for production of nodular and vermicular graphite cast irons were described. The injection of Mg cored wire length is a treatment method which can be used to process high sulphur cupola iron held in ladles or iron melted in an electric induction furnace. This paper describes the results of using a high-magnesium ferrosilicon alloy in cored wire (Mg recovery 47-70% for the production of vermicular and nodular graphite cast irons at Ścinawka Foundry, and for the production of nodular graphite iron at the following foundries: GZUT, KRAKODLEW, Centrozap - DEFKA, EE Zawiercie, WSK–Rzeszów, FWM PRZYSUCHA, HSW Stalowa Wola and PIOMA. The results of calculations and experiments have indicated the length of the cored wire to be injected basing on the initial sulfur content and weight of the treated melt. The results of numerous trials have shown that the magnesium cored wire process can produce high quality nodular and vermicular graphite irons under the specific industrial conditions of the above mentioned foundries. It has also been proved that in the manufacture of nodular graphite iron, the cost of the nodulariser in the form of elastic cored wire is lower than the cost of the FeSiMg or NiCuMg master alloys.

LiFe 0.9Mg 0.1PO 4 material was prepared by mechanical milling method, followed by heat treatment. The equilibrium potential-composition isotherm of LiFe 0.9Mg 0.1PO 4 and charge-discharge kinetics of LiFe 0.9Mg 0.1PO 4 were measured using galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GITT), potential-step chronoamperometry (PSCA), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The rate performance of the cathode is controlled by the charge-transfer kinetics, electronic conductivity, Li-ion diffusion capability, and phase transformation rate. Since LiFe 0.9Mg 0.1PO 4 has a fast charge-transfer reaction and high electronic and ionic diffusivity, the phase transformation between LiFe 0.9Mg 0.1PO 4 and Li 0.1Fe 0.9Mg 0.1PO 4 begins to play a more important role in the charge-discharge process, as is evident by an inductive loop induced by the phase transformation in the low frequency region of EIS. The phase purity and morphology of LiFe 0.9Mg 0.1PO 4 were also observed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Full Text Available High-strength aluminum alloy are widely used for structural components in aerospace, transportation and racing car applications. The objective of this study is to enhance the strength of the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy used for gravity casting process. All alloys cast into stepped-form sand mold (Sand-mold Casting; SC and Y-block shaped metal mold(Permanent mold Casting; PC C and then two –step aged at 398-423 K after solution treated at 743 K for 36 ks. The tensile strength and total elongation of the two-step aged SC alloys were 353-387 MPa and about 0.4% respectively. This low tensile properties of the SC alloys might be caused by remaining of undissolved crystallized phase such as Al2CuM, MgZn2 and Al-Fe-Cu system compounds. However, good tensile properties were obtained from PC alloys, tensile strength and 0.2% proof stress and elongation were 503-537 MPa, 474-519 MPa and 1.3-3.3%.

Giant magneto-impedance (GMI) effect has been realized in the sandwiched FeSiB/Cu/FeSiB films. With magnetic field Ha and ac current applied along the longitudinal direction of the sample, the GMI ratio increases with the increasing Ha, reaching a positive maximum, value, and then decreases to negative values with further increase of magnetic field. Field dependence of the GMI ratio also indicates that the magnetic field corresponding to the maximum GMI ratio is different for various frequencies. The positive maximum GMI ratio is 17.2% for Ha＝1600 A/m and frequency of 3 MHz. In addition, the films display a large negative GMI ratio with a magnetic field applied along the transverse direction and the value of the GMI ratio is about -13.4% for Ha＝5600A/m and frequency of 3 MHz.

CuCr2- x Fe x O4 ceramics have been successfully synthesized using the sol-gel method for the first time. With pure formation, material structure has been characterized by x-ray diffraction. The samples have been identified as having the spinel structure with formulae CuCr2- x Fe x O4. Micrographs obtained by scanning electron microscopy show the dense microstructure of the samples. The stoichiometric ratio of the ceramics has been measured through energy dispersive spectra. Magnetic properties of CuCr2- x Fe x O4 ceramics have been discussed. Temperature dependence of magnetization presents the gradually increasing irreversible temperature as the content of Fe element increases from x = 0 to 1. Coercive field ( H C), remanent magnetization ( M r), and saturation magnetization ( M S) respectively display the monotonous variation phenomena with increasing content of Fe. The increasing M r, M S and the decreasing H C can be attributed to the change of magnetic exchange interaction because of the doped Fe. It also proves that the magnetic properties of CuCr2- x Fe x O4 ceramics can be effectively tuned by the doping content of Fe.

The non-isothermal precipitation behaviors of Al–Mg–Si–Cu alloys with different Zn contents were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis, hardness measurement and high resolution transmission electron microscope characterization. The results show that Zn addition has a significant effect on the GP zone dissolution and precipitation of Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloys. And their activation energies change with the changes of Zn content and aging conditions. Precipitation kinetics can be improved by adding 0.5 wt% or 3.0 wt%Zn, while be suppressed after adding 1.5 wt%Zn. The Mg-Si precipitates (GP zones and β″) are still the main precipitates in the Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloys after heated up to 250 °C, and no Mg-Zn precipitates are observed in the Zn-added alloy due to the occurrence of Mg-Zn precipitates reversion. The measured age-hardening responses of the alloys are corresponding to the predicted results by the established precipitation kinetic equations. Additionally, a double-hump phenomenon of hardness appears in the artificial aging of pre-aged alloy with 3.0 wt% Zn addition, which resulted from the formation of pre-β″ and β″ precipitates. Finally, the precipitation mechanism of Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloys with different Zn contents was proposed based on the microstructure evolution and interaction forces between Mg, Si and Zn atoms.

In this study, the localized corrosion and conversion coating on cast alloys 356 (Al-7.0Si-0.3Mg) and 380 (Al-8.5Si-3.5Cu-1.6Fe) were characterized. The intermetallic phases presence in the permanent mold cast alloy 356 are primary-Si, Al5FeSi, Al8Si6Mg3Fe and Mg2Si. The die cast alloy 380 is rich in Cu and Fe elements. These alloying elements result in formation of the intermetallic phases Al 5FeSi, Al2Cu and Al(FeCuCr) along with primary-Si. The Cu- and Fe-rich IMPS are cathodic with respect to the matrix phase and strongly govern the corrosion behavior of the two cast alloys in an aggressive environment due to formation of local electrochemical cell in their vicinity. Results have shown that corrosion behavior of permanent mould cast alloy 356 is significantly better than the die cast aluminum alloy 380, primarily due to high content of Cu- and Fe-rich phases such as Al2Cu and Al 5FeSi in the latter. The IMPS also alter the protection mechanism of the cast alloys in the presence of inhibitors in an environment. The presence of chromate in the solution results in reduced cathodic activity on all the phases. Chromate provides some anodic inhibition by increasing pitting potentials and altering corrosion potentials for the phases. Results have shown that performance of CCC was much better on 356 than on 380, primarily due to inhomogeneous and incomplete coating deposition on Cu- and Fe- phases present in alloy 380. XPS and Raman were used to characterize coating deposition on intermetallics. Results show evidence of cyanide complex formation on the intermetallic phases. The presence of this complex is speculated to locally suppress CCC formation. Formation and breakdown of cerium conversion coatings on 356 and 380 was also analyzed. Results showed that deposition of cerium hydroxide started with heavy precipitation on intermetallic particles with the coatings growing outwards onto the matrix. Electrochemical analysis of synthesized intermetallics compounds in the

In2O3, MgO and Fe2O3 were doped in LiNbO3 and Czochralski method was used to grow In:Mg:Fe:LiNbO3 crystals. The OH- extension transmission spectra, light scattering resistance ability, two wave coupled diffraction efficiency and response time of the crystal were measured. Codoping In and Mg in crystal will improve its light scattering resistance ability and response time. Doping In can increase the ability to replace antisite Nb and decrease the doping quantity of Mg. All these are propitious to improve the optical homogeneity of crystal. Doping Fe can improve the photorefractive sensitivity for LiNbO3 crystal. We discussed the site of In, Mg and Fe in LiNbO3 crystals and the influence of the absorption peak of OH- transmission spectra on photorefractive property for LiNbO3 crystal.

Full Text Available The remarkable feature of the Aluminium is its low density and ability to withstand corrosion effect due to phenomenon of passivation. Structural components made from Aluminium and its alloys are vital to the aerospace industry and are important in other areas of transportation and structural materials. The oxides and sulphate are useful compounds of Aluminium based on its weight. In this work, an attempt has been made to utilize the combined effect of high cooling rate solidification, unique micro structural evolution mechanism of T6 heat treatment the advantages of hypereutectic Al-Si system alloyed with other elements such as Cu, Fe and Mg. In the present investigation, the binary alloys in the hypereutectic range viz. Al25Mg2Si has been selected as heat resistant Al-Si alloys. A systematic approach has been carried out to explore the micro structural features, mechanical and wear properties of as cast alloys.

Soft X-ray absorption spectra (XAS) and magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) of Fe and Cu L2,3 edges have been measured on the triangular lattice antiferromagnet CuFeO2. By applying sum rule analysis to the XMCD of Fe, the ratio of the orbital to spin magnetic moments is determined to be -0.071. Because the nominal valence of Fe in CuFeO2 was Fe3+ (3d5), the orbital magnetic moment was considered to be zero in the past. However, the present research demonstrates that the orbital magnetic moment of Fe takes a finite value and it is possibly due to Fe4+ (3d4), which is considered to be responsible for the strong magnetic anisotropy and the ferroelectricity. We compare the experimental results with the results of ab initio multiplet calculations based on the configuration interaction theory and discuss the anomalous electronic structures of Fe and Cu ions in CuFeO2.

In this work, ternary Cu doped FePt nanoparticles were prepared in hexadecylamine at 320 °C by choosing FeCl2 as the Fe source. The experimental results showed that without Cu doping the as-prepared FePt nanoparticles possessed fcc structure and gradually exhibited typical fct diffraction peaks after increasing the Cu doping concentration. TEM images showed that the FePt nanoparticles had larger size and wider size distribution after introducing Cu additive. Magnetic property measurement showed that a coercivity of 4800 Oe was obtained when the composition of the ternary nanoparticles reached Fe35Pt45Cu20, in which the content of Fe+Cu was higher than Pt. The research indicates that Cu doping promotes the phase transition of FePt nanoparticles at temperature as low as 320 °C.

We have shown that,in contrast to the results in the literature,the Bragg peak intensity of Ni80Fe20/Cu superlattices is enhanced at the incident x-ray energy slightly higher than the absorption edge of the heavier element(Cu).The atomic density at Ni80Fe20/Cu interface was analysed by the diffraction anomalous fine structure technology with the incident angle of x-ray fixed at the first Bragg peak.Our results demonstrate the epitaxy growth of Ni80Fe20/Cu superlattices.Upon annealing,the epitaxity of Ni80Fe20/Cu multilayers becomes poor but the local crystallinity in each layer is improved.

Calcium ferrite is the main binding phase for high-basicity sinter. The production and structure of calcium ferrite greatly influence the quality of the sinter. With the change in gangue composition, MgO becomes an important factor in the generation of calcium ferrite. In this study, the rotating cylinder method was used to study the dissolution kinetics of MgO into CaO-MgO-Fe2O3 melt. The experimental variables included the temperature, the initial composition of the melt, the Fe2O3/CaO mass ratio, the rotation time, and the rotation speed. The results indicate that the dissolution rate increases with increasing dissolution time, temperature, and rotation speed but decreases with increasing MgO content and Fe2O3/CaO mass ratio in the initial slag. The dissolution rate was observed to increase and then decrease with the addition of SiO2 in the initial slag. The activation energy and diffusion coefficient for MgO dissolution were found to range from 117.31 to 234.24 kJ mol-1 and from 1.03 × 10-6 to 1.18 × 10-5 cm2 s-1, respectively. The concentration difference between the solid and liquid phases is the main driving force for dissolution, but the viscosity and magnesium ion diffusivity of the melt also affect the process.

@@ The metastable liquid-liquid phase separation in undercooled Fe-Co-Cu ternary alloy melts (XCu = 0.10-0.84;XCo:XFe = 1:3,1:1 and 3:1) is investigated by differential thermal analysis in combination with glass fluxing technique. In almost every case, the undercooling of the homogeneous alloy melt was sufficient to reach the boundary line of the submerged miscibility gap. The differential-thermal-analysis signals indicate that this separation into a (Fe, Co)-rich liquid phase L1 and a Cu-rich liquid L2 is exothermic and proceeds until the rapid solidification of the L1 phase occurs. At a given Cu concentration and with the increase of Co content, the phase separation temperatures decrease monotonically between the corresponding values of the boundary systems Fe-Cu and Co-Cu. The boundary lines of the miscibility gap, which are determined for the three quasi-binary cross-sections of the (Fe, Co)-Cu alloy system, show remarkably flat domes. The occurrence of the liquid phase separation shows an evident influence on the subsequent γ-Fe(Co, Cu)→α-Fe(Co, Cu) solid phase transformation.

Mg-10 mol% LiBH4 composite plus small amounts of FeF3 is investigated in the present work. The presence of LiBH4 during the milling process noticeably modifies the size and morphology of the Mg agglomerates, leading to faster hydrogenation and reaching almost the theoretical hydrogen capacity owing to enhanced hydrogen diffusion mechanism. However, the dehydrogenation of the system at low temperatures (≤300 °C) is still slow. Thus, FeF3 addition is proposed to improve the dehydrogenation kinetic behavior. From experimental results, it is found that the presence of FeF3 results in an additional size reduction of the Mg agglomerates between ∼10 and ∼100 μm and the formation of stable phases such as MgF2, LiF and FeB. The FeB species might have a catalytic effect upon the MgH2 decomposition. As a further result of the FeF3 addition, the Mg-10 mol%LiBH4-5 mol% FeF3 material shows improved dehydrogenation properties: reduced dehydrogenation activation energy, faster hydrogen desorption rate and reversible hydrogen capacities of about 5 wt% at 275 °C.

Elemental mixtures of Al, Cu, Fe powders with the nominal composition of Al70Cu20Fe10 were mechanically alloyed in a planetary ball mill for 80 h. Subsequent annealing of the as-milled powders were performed at 600–800°C temperature range for 4 h. Structural characteristics of the mechanically alloyed Al70Cu20Fe10 powders with the milling time and the heat treatment were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). Mechanical alloying of the Al70Cu20Fe10 did not result in the formation of icosahedral quasicrystalline phase (i-phase) and a long time milling resulted in the formation of -Al(Cu,Fe) solid solution phase (-phase). The i-phase was observed only for short-time milled powders after heat treatment above 600°C. The -phase was one of the major phases in the Al70Cu20Fe10 alloy. The w-Al7Cu2Fe1 phase (w-phase) was obtained only after heat treatment of the short-time milled and unmilled samples. The present investigation indicated that a suitable technique to obtain a large amount of quasicrystalline powders is to use a combination of short-time milling and subsequent annealing.

Full Text Available We have investigated the effect of an ultra-thin Ta insertion in the CoFeB (CoFeB/Ta/CoFeB free layer (FL on magnetic and tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR properties of a CoFeB-MgO system with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA. It is found that the critical thickness (tc to sustain PMA is doubled (tc = 2.6 nm in Ta-inserted CoFeB FL as compared to single CoFeB layer (tc = 1.3 nm. While the effective magnetic anisotropy is found to increase with Ta insertion, the saturation magnetization showed a slight reduction. As the CoFeB thickness increasing, the thermal stability of Ta inserted structure is significantly increased by a factor of 2.5 for total CoFeB thickness less than 2 nm. We have observed a reasonable value of TMR for a much thicker CoFeB FL (thickness = 2-2.6 nm with Ta insertion, and without significant increment in resistance-area product. Our results reveal that an ultra-thin Ta insertion in CoFeB might pay the way towards developing the high-density memory devices with enhanced thermal stability.

Full Text Available Acidification of dredged sediments which have been disposed on land is highly dependent on redox shifts. The aim of the present work was to assess changes in sulphur, metal speciation (Zn, Fe, Cr y Cu and acidity caused by a polluted sediment oxidation event. Sediments were dessicated under controlled conditions and sulphide compounds (acid volatile sulphides-AVS- and sulphate, pH and neutralization potential were measured through time during 36 days. Zinc, Cu, Cr and Fe speciation (BCR metal sequential extraction procedure were measured at the beginning of the experiment and at day 22. An acid-base equilibrium method based on the BCR procedure was employed to assess the sediment acidification risk. Some of the re-suspension experiments were inoculated with an Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans strain to assess biological catalysis on sulphide oxidation. Acid-base equilibrium results indicated the sediment sample had a significant acidification potential. Oxidation increased sulphate levels (56 to 2300 mg S kg-¹ in the desiccation experiment with a temporal evolution adjusted by a logistic model, and a 2100 to 3000 mg SO4 -² L-¹ increase for the resuspension experiments. Sulphide oxidation rates varied between 0 to 3.1.10-9 mg O2 kg-¹ s-¹ for the drying sediment. Zinc changes could be explained partially by ZnS conversion to ZnSO4 during oxidation. Iron reduction could be attributed to an increase in Fe oxides crystallinity. Acid-base equilibrium for the sample indicated it was a potentially acid-generating material. Zinc increased its bioavailability during drying and was the only metal that appeared in significant amounts in solution during re-suspension. Land-filling with dredged sediments could present increased metals bioavailability problems despite having an important and effective neutralization potential.La evaluación de los riesgos de acidificación por deposición de sedimentos dragados en superficie es muy dependiente de los

The perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) of Fe1-x Co x thin films on MgO(001) was investigated via first-principles density-functional calculations. Four different configurations were considered based on their ground states: Fe/MgO, Fe12Co4/MgO, Fe10Co6/MgO, and Fe8Co8/MgO. As the Co composition increases, the amplitude of PMA increases first from Fe/MgO to Fe12Co4/MgO, and then decreases in Fe10Co6/MgO; finally, the magnetic anisotropy becomes horizontal in Fe8Co8/MgO. Analysis based on the second-order perturbation of the spin-orbit interaction was carried out to illustrate the contributions from Fe and Co atoms to PMA, and the differential charge density was calculated to give an intuitive comparison of 3d orbital occupancy. The enhanced PMA in Fe12Co4/MgO is ascribed to the optimized combination of occupied and unoccupied 3d states around the Fermi energy from both interface Fe and Co atoms, while the weaker PMA in Fe10Co6/MgO is mainly attributed to the modulation of the interface Co-d xy orbital around the Fermi energy. By adjusting the Co composition in Fe1-x Co x , the density of states of transitional metal atoms will be modulated to optimize PMA for future high-density memory application.

Growth of Fe and Cu thin films on Au substrate and stress evolution were modeled using molecular dynamics simulation. The interactions in the system are described by embedded atom method. The kinematical theory of scattering is performed to identify the structure obtained from simulations. The gold layers undergo reconstruction before deposition. The deposited copper atoms do not disturb the atoms in the reconstructed gold layer, but the deposited iron atoms cause the disappearance of the reconstructed gold surfaces. In both systems Cu/Au and Fe/Au, in the early stage of growth one observes compressive stress. Next, Cu/Au systems have the compressive stress, while in the case of Fe/Au the tensile stress is observed. In the Fe/Au system, the body-centered cubic lattice of Fe changes its orientation relative to the Au layer. In the Fe/Au system we observed a larger diffusion of Au atoms than in Cu/Au systems. - Highlights: • The kinematical theory of scattering is performed to identify the structure. • The correlation between the stress and the deformation is observed. • The relaxation of the stress depends on the orientation of layers. • The lattice of Fe changes its orientation relative to the Au layer in the Fe/Au system. • The Cu layer continues the lattice of Au in the Cu/Au system.

The isolation and characterization of a new metalloprotein containing Cu and Fe atoms is reported. The as-isolated Cu-Fe protein shows an UV-visible spectrum with absorption bands at 320 nm, 409 nm and 615 nm. Molecular mass of the native protein along with denaturating electrophoresis and mass spectrometry data show that this protein is a multimer consisting of 14+/-1 subunits of 15254.3+/-7.6 Da. Mössbauer spectroscopy data of the as-isolated Cu-Fe protein is consistent with the presence of [2Fe-2S](2+) centers. Data interpretation of the dithionite reduced protein suggest that the metallic cluster could be constituted by two ferromagnetically coupled [2Fe-2S](+) spin delocalized pairs. The biochemical properties of the Cu-Fe protein are similar to the recently reported molybdenum resistance associated protein from Desulfovibrio, D. alaskensis. Furthermore, a BLAST search from the DNA deduced amino acid sequence shows that the Cu-Fe protein has homology with proteins annotated as zinc resistance associated proteins from Desulfovibrio, D. alaskensis, D. vulgaris Hildenborough, D. piger ATCC 29098. These facts suggest a possible role of the Cu-Fe protein in metal tolerance.

The microstructure of an Al-4Cu-Mg alloy during isothermal heat treatment in the Strain Induced Melt Activation (SIMA)process was investigated and the kinetics of grain growth was analyzed. The grain growth during isothermal heat treatment of the Al4Cu-Mg alloy coincided with the Ostwald ripening theory. During isothermal heat treatment, both grain shape and the high volume fraction of solid phase have significant effects on grain growth. Therefore, a new grain growth model based on the Ostwald ripening theory was proposed taking into consideration the grain shape and the volume fraction of solid phase. By comparing the calculated results with the experimental results, it was confirmed that the present model could be applied to grain growth during isothermal heat treatment of the Al-4Cu-Mg alloy in the SIMA process.

We reported four fluorescent chemosensors containing tryptophan units.The fluorescence spectrum titration experiments suggest that chemosensors 1,2,3 and 4 are highly selective for Cu2+ and Fe3+ over Li+,Na+,K+,Co2+,Zn2+,Ni2+,Hg2+ and Cr3+ via forming complexes with Cu2+ or Fe3+,which is confirmed by dramatical quench of fluoreseence in aqueous solution at pH 7.4,thus making all the chemosensors suitable for Cu2+ and Fe3+ fluorescent sensors.

Full Text Available Magnesium (Mg and iron (Fe nanoparticles are prepared by thermal decomposition of bipyridyl complexes of metals. These prepared Mg-Fe (2 : 1 nanoparticles are hydrogenated under 4 MPa hydrogen pressure and 673 K for 48 hours to achieve Mg2FeH6. Their structural analysis was assessed by applying manifold techniques. The hydrogen storage properties of prepared compound were measured by Sieverts type apparatus. The desorption kinetics were measured by high pressure thermal desorption spectrometer (HP-TDS. More than 5 wt% hydrogen released was obtained by the Mg2FeH6 within 5 min, and during rehydrogenation very effective hydrogen absorption rate was observed by the compound.

FeSiAl particles with a layer of MgO surface coating have excellent soft magnetic and electromagnetic properties. In order to obtain the FeSiAl/MgO composites, Mg(OH)2 sol prepared by sol-gel process was well-mixed with FeSiAl flake particles, and then treated by calcination at 823 K in vacuum. The microstructural, morphological and electromagnetic parameters of FeSiAl/MgO particles were tested. Accordingly, the electromagnetic wave reflection loss in the frequency range of 0.5-18 GHz was calculated. The results show that the surface coating increases coercivity Hc and decreases complex permittivity, leading to a good impedance matching. When the coating amount was 7.5%, reflection loss of the composite particles can reach to -33 dB.

Ding, Yaobin, E-mail: yaobinding@mail.scuec.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials Science of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission and Ministry of Education, College of Resources and Environmental Science, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan 430074 (China); Tang, Hebin [College of Pharmacy, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan 430074 (China); Zhang, Shenghua; Wang, Songbo [Key Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials Science of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission and Ministry of Education, College of Resources and Environmental Science, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan 430074 (China); Tang, Heqing, E-mail: tangheqing@mail.scuec.edu.cn [Key Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials Science of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission and Ministry of Education, College of Resources and Environmental Science, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan 430074 (China)

2016-11-05

Highlights: • CuFeO{sub 2} microparticles were prepared by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method. • CuFeO{sub 2} microparticles efficiently catalyzed the activation of peroxymonosulfate. • Quenching experiments confirmed sulfate radicals as the major reactive radicals. • Carbamazepine was rapidly degraded by micro-CuFeO{sub 2}/peroxymonosulfate. • Feasibility of CuFeO{sub 2}/peroxymonosulfate was tested for treatment of actual water. - Abstract: Microscaled CuFeO{sub 2} particles (micro-CuFeO{sub 2}) were rapidly prepared via a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was found that the micro-CuFeO{sub 2} was of pure phase and a rhombohedral structure with size in the range of 2.8 ± 0.6 μm. The micro-CuFeO{sub 2} efficiently catalyzed the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to generate sulfate radicals (SO{sub 4}·−), causing the fast degradation of carbamazepine (CBZ). The catalytic activity of micro-CuFeO{sub 2} was observed to be 6.9 and 25.3 times that of micro-Cu{sub 2}O and micro-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}, respectively. The enhanced activity of micro-CuFeO{sub 2} for the activation of PMS was confirmed to be attributed to synergistic effect of surface bonded Cu(I) and Fe(III). Sulfate radical was the primary radical species responsible for the CBZ degradation. As a microscaled catalyst, micro-CuFeO{sub 2} can be easily recovered by gravity settlement and exhibited improved catalytic stability compared with micro-Cu{sub 2}O during five successive degradation cycles. Oxidative degradation of CBZ by the couple of PMS/CuFeO{sub 2} was effective in the studied actual aqueous environmental systems.

Ethanol induced method was applied to prepare Cu-Fe-Zr catalysts for conversion of syngas to higher alcohols. The catalytic performance of the catalysts induced by ethanol was superior to that of the catalyst prepared by the conventional precipitation method. Among various procedures for ethanol induced method,it was found that incorporation of ethanol in the precipitation process was the better. After incorporation of ethanol,the crystal size of CuO decreased and the reduction of copper species became easier. The better activity of Cu-Fe-Zr catalysts prepared by ethanol induced procedures was probably caused by the higher dispersion of Cu species.

Different aspects of the structure-magnetism and morphology-magnetism correlation in the ultrathin limit are studied in epitaxial Fe films grown on MgO(001). In the initial stages of growth the presence of substrate steps, intrinsically higher than an Fe atomic layer, prevent connection between Fe islands and hence the formation of large volume magnetic regions. This is proposed as an explanation to the superparamagnetic nature of ultrathin Fe films grown on MgO in addition to the usually considered islanded, or Vollmer-Weber, growth. Using this model, we explain the observed transition from superparamagnetism to ferromagnetism for Fe coverages above 3 monolayers (ML). However, even though ferromagnetism and magnetocrystalline anisotropy are observed for 4ML, complete coverage of the MgO substrate by the Fe ultrathin films only occurs around 6 ML as determined by polar Kerr spectra and simulations that consider different coverage situations. In annealed 3.5 ML Fe films, shape or configurational anisotropy dominates the intrinsic magnetocrystalline anisotropy, due to an annealing induced continuous to islanded morphological transition. A small interface anisotropy in thicker films is observed, probably due to dislocations observed at the Fe/MgO(001) interface.

The magnetic properties of epitaxial Fe/MgO structures on Si(100) substrates are investigated over an Fe thickness range of 2-20 nm. Superparamagnetic behavior is observed at an Fe thickness of 2 nm, indicating that no continuous Fe thin film is formed. At Fe thicknesses of 5 nm and higher, a continuous two-dimensional layered structure is formed, which has a dominant epitaxial relationship of Fe[010](100)//MgO [ 01 1 bar ] (100)//Si [ 01 1 bar ] (100) and a minor portion of Fe[010](100)//MgO[010](100)//Si [ 01 1 bar ] (100). This structural feature is echoed by a four-fold magnetic anisotropy in the film plane, and this tendency increases with increasing Fe thickness. The strength of the first-order cubic magnetocrystalline anisotropy, which can only be extracted from the structures, is in the range of 3.87×105-4.04×105 erg/cm3, weaker than that of bulk Fe (4.8×105 erg/cm3).

Polycrystalline Fe-doped BaMgSiO4 is synthesized by the conventional solid state reaction method, which shows strong photochromism. Photochromic property of the synthesized specimens is investigated by measuring the diffuse reflectance spectrum. Local environment of doped Fe ions in BaMgSiO4 has been studied by the analysis of the X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectrum with the aid of the first-principles calculations.

A novel class of desulfurization agent derived from hydrotalcite has been developed and its activity for Sox uptake have been investigated. The results showed that the Mg/Fe mixed oxide having high Sox uptake ability at a broad reaction temperature (e.g. 673K ~ 973K). The Mg/Fe ratio of the mixed oxide strongly affect the desulfurization role of the material and it can be used repeatly without much loss of Sox uptake ability.

LiF:Mg,Ti and LiF:Mg,Cu,P are well known thermoluminescence (TL) dosimetry materials since many years. A few years ago their properties seemed well known and it was widely believed that they are not suitable for the measurement of doses above the saturation level of the TL signal, which for both materials occur at about 1 kGy. The high-dose high-temperature TL emission of LiF:Mg,Cu,P observed at the IFJ in 2006, which above 30 kGy takes the form of the so-called TL peak B, opened the way to use this material for measuring the dose in the high and ultra-high range, in particular for the monitoring of ionizing radiation around the essential electronic elements of high-energy accelerators, also fission and fusion facilities, as well as for emergency dosimetry. This discovery initiated studies of high and ultra-high dose characteristics of both of these phosphors, which turned out to be significantly different in many aspects. These studies not only strive to refine the method for measuring high doses based on th...

The adsorption process has been used as an effective technique for the removal of metal ions from aqueous solutions. Groundwater remediation by nanoparticles has received interest in recent years. In the present study, a binary metal oxide of Fe-Cu was prepared and used for the removal of hexavalent chromium from aqueous solution. Batch experiments were performed to investigate the effects of initial Cr (VI) concentration, dose of adsorbent, and pH of solution on the removal efficiency of Cr (VI). The prepared nanostructured Fe-Cu binary oxides were able to reduce the concentration of Cr (VI) in aqueous solution. Binary metal oxides nanoparticle exhibited an outstanding ability to remove Cr (VI) due to high surface area, low particle size, and high inherent activity. The percentage removal efficiency of Cr (VI) increased with nanoparticles doses (0.1 g L(-1)-2.5 g L(-1)), whereas it decreased with initial Cr (VI) concentration (1 mg L(-1)-25 mg L(-1)) and with pH (3-9). The Freundlich model was found to be the better fit for adsorption isotherm. The prepared nanomaterial was characterized using powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and ultraviolet (UV)-visible spectroscopy. It showed that the Fe-Cu binary oxides were formed in single phase. SEM micrograph showed aggregates with many nano-sized particles. UV-visible spectroscopy showed quantum confinement effect.

The structure of bcc-Fe80 Cu2o solid solution produced by mechanical alloying of theelemental bcc-Fe and fcc-Cu powders has been studied using X-ray diffraction and theextended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) techniques. The disappearance ofelemental Fe and Cu X-ray diffraction (XRD) peaks and the presence of bcc structuralXRD peaks illustrate the formation of a nanocrystalline single-phase bcc-Fe80 Gu20solid solution. From the EXAFS results, the clear observation of Cu atoms taking onbcc coordination in the solid solution and Fe atoms remaining bcc structure furtherverifies the reality of atomic alloying between Fe and Cu atoms and the lattice changeof Cu from fcc to bcc. However, the supersaturated bcc solid solution is not chemicallyuniform, i.e., some regions are rich in Fe atoms and other regions rich in Cu atoms.

Full Text Available Three quaternary Al-6Si-3Cu-xMg (x = 0.59, 3.80, and 6.78 wt.% alloys were produced by melt-spun and characterized using X-ray diffractometry (XRD, transmission electron microscopy (TEM, and microhardness techniques. Obtained second phases were Al2Cu( for the alloy with 0.59% Mg and Al5Cu2Mg8Si6 (Q for the alloys with 3.80 and 6.78% Mg. These phases are present as 30–50 nm or as 5–10 nm nanoparticles. Alloying elements content in solid solution increased, mainly for Si and Mg. The high alloying elements content in solid solution and the small -Al cell size for melt-spun alloys leads to microhardness values about 2 times higher than those of ingot counterparts. The microhardness increase for melt-spun alloys with 3.80 and 6.78% Mg depends on Mg content in solid solution.

This paper deals with the creep behaviour of the titanium carbide reinforced AlSi12CuNiMg piston alloy at 350 C and its comparison to the conventional AlSi12Cu4Ni2MgTiZr piston alloy. With only 0,02 vol-% TiC reinforcement the creep strength and creep rupture strength of the AlSi12CuNiMg piston alloy are significantly improved and reach the level of the expensive AlSi12Cu4Ni2MgTiZr alloy. (Copyright copyright 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

The recent discovery of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) at the CoFeB/MgO interface has accelerated the development of next generation high-density non-volatile memories by utilizing perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions (p-MTJs). However, the insufficient interfacial PMA in the typical Ta/CoFeB/MgO system will not only complicate the p-MTJ optimization, but also limit the device density scalability. Moreover, the rapid decreases of PMA in Ta/CoFeB/MgO films with annealing temperature higher than 300°C will make the compatibility with CMOS integrated circuits a big problem. By replacing the Ta buffer layer with a thin Mo film, we have increased the PMA in the Ta/CoFeB/MgO structure by 20%. More importantly, the thermal stability of the perpendicularly magnetized (001)CoFeB/MgO films is greatly increased from 300°C to 425°C, making the Mo/CoFeB/MgO films attractive for a practical p-MTJ application.

Superparamagnetic mesoporous Mg-Fe bi-metal oxides with varied Mg-Fe atomic ratios have been successfully synthesized as solid base catalysts. The M2F-400 catalyst with Mg/Fe atomic ratio = 2 showed extraordinarily high activities for Knoevenagel reactions even at room temperature. It could be magnetically separated, recycled, and reused for at least five cycles.

Technological improvements in the magnetotransport performance of Fe/MgO/Fe stacks require nanoscale control over the topographical and electrical properties of the ultrathin MgO barrier. We have statistically investigated the incidence of in situ annealing of the lower Fe layer on the nanoscale topographical/electrical properties of Fe/MgO bilayers and the structural and magnetic properties of Fe/MgO/Fe/Co multilayers prepared by sputtering. This annealing step improves the crystal quality of both the lower Fe and the upper Fe/Co layers, leading to an enhanced saturated magnetic moment. Finally, this annealing step substantially mitigates the presence of nanohills on the lower Fe layer and improves the uniformity of the height and/or the thickness of the MgO tunnel barrier. Our results pave the way for studies of nanoscale transport on micrometre-sized devices through a better understanding of, and control over, nanoscale hotspots in the tunnel barrier.

Ternary Fe48Cu48Si4 immiscible alloy was rapidly solidified under the containerless microgravity condition inside a drop tube. Liquid phase separation took place in the alloy melt and led to the formation of various segregated structures. The core-shell structure consisting of Fe-rich and Cu-rich zones and the homogenously dispersed structure were the major structural morphologies. Phase field simulation results revealed that the two-layer core-shell was the final structure of liquid phase separation. The solute redistribution of liquid Fe48Cu48Si4 alloy experienced the macroscopic solute distribution induced by liquid phase separation, the secondary phase separation within the separated liquid phases and the solute trapping during rapid solidification. Energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis showed that the solute Si was enriched in the Fe-rich zone whereas depleted in the Cu-rich zone. In addition, both αFe and (Cu) phases in the Fe-rich zone exhibited a conspicuous solute trapping effect. As compared with (Cu) phase, αFe phase had a stronger affinity with solute Si.

A detailed study has been carried out to investigate the effect of applied current density on the composition, crystallographic structure, grain size, and surface morphology of Fe-Cu films. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results show that the films consist of a mixture of face-centered cubic (fcc) Cu and body centered cubic (bcc) ~-Fe phases. The average crystalline size of both Fe and Cu particles decreases as the applied current density becomes more negative. Compositional analysis of Fe-Cu films indicates that the Fe content within the films increases with decreasing current density towards more negative values. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) have been used to investigate the surface morphology of Fe-Cu films. It is observed that the surface morphology of the films changes from dendritic structure to a cauliflower structure as the applied current density becomes more negative. The surface roughness and grain size of the Fe-Cu films decrease with decreasing applied current density towards more negative values.

To improve the corrosion and wear resistance of copper and its alloys, flame spraying has been employed to obtain a relatively homogenous Cu/Al/Fe-based coating. To minimize the defects that usually occur by using this method, a post-coating annealing step has been employed, by using concentrated solar energy as means of thermal surface treatment. Scanning electron micrographs have indicated a reduction in the cracks/pores density and accelerated corrosion testing have indicated a higher performance of the solar-annealed sample, in comparison with the initial reference material. The coating approach mentioned in this paper could be successfully applied to restore several worn tools and instruments, and could also be of use in the renewable energy field (IR-absorbent coatings) or in advanced oxidation processes, such as photocatalysis.

The addition of aluminium to a mixture of Mg-Cu (2:1 atomic ratio) leads by melting to the formation of increasing amounts of Mg(Cu,Al)/sub 2/ where aluminium substitutes for copper atoms in the MgCu/sub 2/ lattice, raising the lattice parameter. The hydrogen absorbed in this phase is strongly bounded, as proved by desorption isotherms and nuclear magnetic resonance data.

As the loss of active material Mg may affect electrode's discharge capacity and the cycling stability,a more refined mechanism study on cycling capacity degradation should be made.The present investigation is based on the supposition that the capacity degradation of the binary Mg50Ni50 alloy and ternary Mg45Cu5Ni50 alloy electrodes is solely due to the corrosion of Mg,the active hydrogen storage element.That means amount of capacity degradation is determined by the corrosion current time,which is also the time of operation.The corrosion current J corr dependence on cycling time was deduced.A mathematic relation between the cycling capacity retention CN / C 1 (%) and the duration of operation was also deduced.The data calculated from the equations deduced agree well with those of the experiment result.The loss of the active hydrogen-absorbing element Mg is proved to be the main cause for cycling capacity deterioration in the present investigation.

Iron-based nanoparticles prepared by precipitation from solid solution of saturated binary Cu-Fe alloy were studied by transmission electron microscopy, high-energy X-ray diffraction and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The results showed that the investigated as-prepared nanoparticles contained two phases. The major phase was determined as α−Fe and the minor phase as γ−Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Furthermore, additionally annealed samples in Ar protective atmosphere were investigated. Results showed clear decrease in contribution of α−Fe phase and also revealed the presence of various iron oxides (maghemite, magnetite, hematite and wűstite).

We study effects originating from the strong spin-orbit coupling in CoFeB/MgO heterostructures with heavy metal (HM) underlayers. The perpendicular magnetic anisotropy at the CoFeB/MgO interface, the spin Hall angle of the heavy metal layer, current induced torques and the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction at the HM/CoFeB interfaces are studied for films in which the early 5d transition metals are used as the HM underlayer. We show how the choice of the HM layer influences these intricate spin-orbit effects that emerge within the bulk and at interfaces of the heterostructures.

A simple technique that uses radio-frequency sputtering with a functional element on a hematite (α-Fe2O3) target is presented for the production of maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) thin films. These films are prepared on water-cooled glass substrates in an Ar atmosphere. Investigations are done with Ti, Si, Al, Cu, Mo, and Zn, with γ-Fe2O3 being obtained only in the presence of Cu, indicating that phase transition occurs only for this metal. Mössbauer spectra and magnetization analysis reveal that the quality of the obtained γ-Fe2O3 films is higher than that of the film produced using Mg, which was reported in our previous work. High-angle annular dark-field scanning tunneling electron microscopy and electron energy-loss spectroscopy reveal that the added Cu remains in a metallic state (without oxidization), forming a Cu/γ-Fe2O3 phase-mixture in the as-deposited film. The Cu/γ-Fe2O3 composite film exhibits negative magnetoresistance (MR), with a MR ratio of approximately 0.6% at room temperature in an applied field of 10 kOe, and a negative Faraday rotation of -5708 deg cm-1 at 830 nm.

The hydrotalcite of Mg6Fe2(OH)16CO3 x 4.5H2O were synthesized using urea method by adjusting the initial pH and urea amount in the reaction solution. The results showed that the co-precipitation of Mg2+ with Fe3+ cations formed Mg-Fe LDH occurring at pH 8.48-9.35. The pH played a crucial role in the Mg-Fe LDH precipitation by controlling urea/Fe3+ molar ratio in the reaction solution at 105 degrees C. The optimized urea/Fe3+ molar ratio was 12.0, where the relative yield of the Mg-Fe LDH was 80.0% and the Mg-Fe LDH was highly crystalline with small particle sizes (1-2 μm). The affinity of the Mg-Fe mixed oxide (Mg-Fe LDO) with Cr(VI) was studied as a function of contact time, initial pH, temperature of the solutions and calcined time of Mg-Fe LDH. The adsorption conditions were optimized using response surface methodology. The maximum adsorption capacity of 38.86 mg/g was achieved at 85 min with the conditions of initial pH 5.5, temperature 55 degrees C and calcined time 4 h. It was concluded that the Mg-Fe LDO can be used as an adsorbent to removal Cr(VI) in aqueous solutions.

Full Text Available Fe- and Cu-doped ZnO nanorods have been synthesized by a novel process employing a hydrolysis of metal powders. Zn, Fe, and Cu nanopowders were used as starting materials and incorporated into distilled water. The solution was refluxed at 60°C for 24 h to obtain the precipitates from the hydrolysis of Zn and dopants (Cu and Fe. The TEM results for ZnO with and without metal doping showed that the produced powders had a rod-like shape. The rod shape was attributable to the zinc oxide from the hydrolysis of Zn. With an increasing doping content, the UV-vis spectra were shifted to a long wavelength and this result indicates that the band gap was changed by the metal doping. The values of phenol degrading Fe- and Cu-doped ZnO by a solar simulator were measured to be 60 and 75%, respectively.

A mathematical model for describing the relationship betweenelectrical conductivity and the thickness of bilayer, ratio of sublayer thickness of a nano-scale multilayer material (MLM) is presented. Fe/Cu MLM was synthesized by electron beam physical vapor deposition (EB-PVD) technique, and the dependence of electrical conductivity of Fe/Cu MLM on the bilayer thickness and ratio of sublayer thickness were investigated. It is shown that the electrical conductivity of Fe/Cu MLM with fixed ratio of sublayer thickness decreases sharply when the thickness of bilayer becomes thinner than 30 nm. When the bilayer thickness is kept constant, the electrical conductivity linearly decreases with the increasing ratio of sublayer thickness. The values of parameters in the model were obtained by fitting the measured results of electrical conductivity of Fe/Cu MLM with fixed ratio of sublayer thickness. It is found that the calculated values agree well with measured ones.

Full Text Available A highly active and magnetically recyclable nanostructured copper–iron oxide (CuFe) catalyst has been synthesized for hydroxylation of benzene to phenol under mild reaction conditions. The obtained catalytic results were correlated with the catalyst...

High saturation magnetization and magnetic anisotropy are helpful for getting a high frequency electromagnetic microwave absorption performance. The α-Fe possesses a high saturation magnetization. Fe-B phases exhibit a relatively higher magnetic anisotropy and higher resistivity than α-Fe simultaneously. In this work, we made nanocrystalline powders of Fe82B17Cu1, mainly consisting of α-Fe and Fe2B phases, by ball milling and post-annealing. Electromagnetic microwave characterization shows that Fe82B17Cu1 powders possess a relative high permeability and considerable permittivity. Due to a good electromagnetic impedance matching, a good electromagnetic microwave absorption property (RL < -35 dB) has been achieved at 3.6 GHz. The experimental frequency and the matching thickness are coincident with the quarter wavelength matching condition.

Magnetic, resonance and transport properties of Fe(t nm)/MgO(3.0 nm) multilayers prepared by pulsed laser deposition were investigated. Comparison of the data allows conclusions on Fe layers morphology. For t<0.61 nm typical features of granular cermet films in dielectric regime are observed, i.e. high electrical resistance, isotropic magnetoresistance and strong temperature dependence of magnetization. For higher t coalescence of Fe granules occurs and metallic percolation cluster is formed at t{approx}0.81 nm. This is manifested by rapid decrease of films resistance and formation of multipeak ferromagnetic resonance spectra. For t>1.25 nm a continuous coverage of MgO by Fe takes place. However, the morphology of Fe layers is rough. This causes the appearance of magnetostatic resonance modes analogous to those observed for continuous films deposited on embossed surfaces.

We report on the magnetic properties of individual Fe atoms deposited on MgO(100) thin films probed by x-ray magnetic circular dichroism and scanning tunneling spectroscopy. We show that the Fe atoms have strong perpendicular magnetic anisotropy with a zero-field splitting of 14.0±0.3 meV/atom. This is a factor of 10 larger than the interface anisotropy of epitaxial Fe layers on MgO and the largest value reported for Fe atoms adsorbed on surfaces. The interplay between the ligand field at the O adsorption sites and spin-orbit coupling is analyzed by density functional theory and multiplet calculations, providing a comprehensive model of the magnetic properties of Fe atoms in a low-symmetry bonding environment.

We report on the magnetic properties of individual Fe atoms deposited on MgO(100) thin films probed by x-ray magnetic circular dichroism and scanning tunneling spectroscopy. We show that the Fe atoms have strong perpendicular magnetic anisotropy with a zero-field splitting of 14.0 ±0.3 meV /atom . This is a factor of 10 larger than the interface anisotropy of epitaxial Fe layers on MgO and the largest value reported for Fe atoms adsorbed on surfaces. The interplay between the ligand field at the O adsorption sites and spin-orbit coupling is analyzed by density functional theory and multiplet calculations, providing a comprehensive model of the magnetic properties of Fe atoms in a low-symmetry bonding environment.

A number of liquid-gas experiments were carried out in order to elucidate evaporation mechanism of Cu from liquid Fe containing C and S. Rate of Cu evaporation in liquid Fe droplets at 1873 K (1600 °C) was determined using electromagnetic levitation equipment. Evaporation rate of the Cu under various conditions (flow rate of gas mixtures, initial C, and S concentrations) was examined. It was found from a series of kinetic analyses of the experimental data that Cu evaporates in forms of Cu(g) and CuS(g). As was reported for the Sn evaporation from liquid iron (Jung et al. Met. Mater. Trans. 46B, 250-258, 2014), S plays two roles for the evaporation of Cu: accelerating the rate by forming CuS(g) and decelerating the rate by blocking evaporation sites. As a result of these combinatorial effects, the evaporation of Cu is decelerated at low S content, but is accelerated at high S content. Based on the elucidated mechanism, an evaporation model equation for Cu was developed in the present study, which takes into account (1) evaporation of Cu in the two forms (Cu(g) and CuS(g)), (2) surface blocking by S using ideal Langmuir adsorption, and (3) effect of C. The obtained rate constant of a reaction Cu i + S i = CuS i (g), k CuS R , is 1.37 × 10-9 m4 mol-1 s-1, and the residual rate constant, k CuS r , is 4.11 × 10-10 m4 mol-1 s-1 at 1873 K (1600 °C). Both of them were found to be one order lower than those for Sn evaporation.

Full Text Available The iron molybdate NaMgFe(MoO43 {sodium magnesium iron(III tris[molybdate(VI]} has been synthesized by the flux method. This compound is isostructural with α-NaFe2(MoO43 and crystallizes in the triclinic space group P-1. Its structure is built up from [Mg,Fe]2O10 units of edge-sharing [Mg,Fe]O6 octahedra which are linked to each other through the common corners of [MoO4] tetrahedra. The resulting anionic three-dimensional framework leads to the formation of channels along the [101] direction in which the Na+ cations are located.

The mechanical properties and microstructural features of Al-Cu-Mg alloys were investigated, as exposed to laser treatments at various scan velocities. As far as the mechanical property is concerned a striking observation is a minimum in the hardness value at a laser scan velocity of 1/2 cm/s. Usual

Full Text Available During rheo-high pressure die casting (R-HPDC) of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys a coarse eutectic phase is formed. This eutectic phase is difficult to take into solution because of its size and it would require longer solution heat treatment times...

The mechanical properties and microstructural features of Al-Cu-Mg alloys were investigated, as exposed to laser treatments at various scan velocities. As far as the mechanical property is concerned a striking observation is a minimum in the hardness value at a laser scan velocity of 1/2 cm/s.

Based on thermodynamic calculation technology, the thermodynamic data of six alloys (inc. Al-Si and Al-Si-Cu-Mg systems) was calculated. The microstructure, phase transformation temperature and latent heat of the Al-4%Cu-12%Mg-7%Si alloy and Al-13%Si alloy were also verified by X-ray diffraction(XRD), scanning electron microscopy/Energy-dispersive system (SEM/EDS) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results show that The enthalpy change value of Al-Si-Cu-Mg alloy is larger than that of Al-Si alloy from 800 °C to 400 °C, while its phase transformation temperature is lower. In particular, the enthalpy value of Al-4%Cu-12%Mg-7%Si alloy is 85% higher than that of Al-13%Si near eutectic alloy, and its initial temperature of phase transformation is about 74 °C lower. The former has relatively low phase transformation temperature and over-dimensioned latent heat of phase transformation, displaying the excellent thermal storage property. Therefore, the alloy is a good potential solar energy thermal storage material. The results in the paper also indicated that thermodynamic calculation is of value in seeking new potential solar energy thermal storage materials for solar thermal power generation system.

Full Text Available The mechanical properties of different chemical composition AlSiCuMg type cast alloys after precipitation hardening are presented. The aim of the study was to find out how much the changes in chemistry of aluminum cast alloys permissible by EN-PN standards may influence the mechanical properties of these alloys. Eight AlSi5Cu3(Mg type cast alloys of different content alloying elements were selected for the study. The specimens cut form test castings were subjected to precipitation hardening heat treatment. The age hardened specimens were evaluated using tensile test, hardness measurements and impact test. Moreover, the structure investigation were carried out using either conventional light Metallography and scanning (SEM and transmission (TEM electron microscopy. The two last methods were used for fractography observations and precipitation process observations respectively. It was concluded that the changes in chemical composition which can reach even 2,5wt.% cause essential differences of the structure and mechanical properties of the alloys. As followed from quantitative evaluation and as could be predicted theoretically, copper and silicon mostly influenced the mechanical properties of AlSi5Cu3(Mg type cast alloys. Moreover it was showed that the total concentration of alloying elements accelerated and intensifies the process of decomposition of supersaturated solid solution. The increase of Cu and Mg concentration increased the density of precipitates. It increases of strength properties of the alloys which are accompanied with decreasing in ductility.

Metal substitution reactions are simple redox reactions. Thesereactions demonstrate the relative activity and the electrochemicalseries of metals. In particular, the purpose of thisstudy is to help students comprehend the displacement reactionamong, Mg metal and solutions containing Cu$^{+2}$, Ni$^{+2}$,Pb$^{+2}$, Cd$^{+2}$, Co$^{+2}$. This study is an important experiment towardsunderstanding reaction kinetics.

Multilayer films [Cu(d Å)/Fe(9 Å)/Pd(11 Å)]{sub 5} were deposited at room temperature on Si(001)/SiO{sub 2}(400 nm) substrates. In order to induce chemical L1{sub 0} ordering, the as-deposited samples were post-annealed by rapid thermal annealing (RTA) at 600 °C for 90 s followed additionally by heating in ultra-high vacuum (UHV) at 700 °C up to several hours. In this study the impact of post-annealing on the structural and magnetic properties of FePdCu alloy films in dependence on the Cu content was investigated. It was found that the addition of Cu to the FePd alloy has a strong influence on the chemical ordering process and the (001) texture formation. After the RTA treatment only an isotropic distribution of the easy axis of magnetization with coercive fields in the range of a few hundred mT was observed. In contrast, samples which were additionally heated for 1 h at 700 °C revealed an out-of-plane easy axis of magnetization with an effective magnetic anisotropy of about 2×10{sup 5} J/m{sup 3} for the sample containing 10 at% of Cu. - Highlights: • Fabrication by two-step annealing of FePdCu thin alloy films. • The impact of post-annealing on the structural and magnetic properties of FePdCu alloy films. • The addition of Cu to the FePd alloy has a strong influence on the chemical ordering process and the (001) texture formation. • Importance of texture in polycrystalline L1{sub 0} FePdCu alloy for perpendicular magnetic anisotropy.

Self-assembled mesoporous silicon with quasi-regular pore arrangements has been fabricated by the electrochemical anodization process in hydrofluoric acid solution. CoFeCu was electrodeposited in this structure from a bath containing sodium acetate as a complexing agent with a pH value of 5. The effect of current density on the morphology, the structure and the magnetic properties of CoFeCu deposit was studied by SEM, EDS, DRX and VSM. It has been shown that the morphology and structure of samples were strongly influenced by the current density and etching duration. The micrographs show the vertical and branched nanowires and also a discontinuous growth of wires. Further, the growth of a thick layer from the grain boundaries of released CoFeCu wires is produced. The magnetic hysteresis loops demonstrate that the CoFeCu nanowires exhibit easy magnetic axis perpendicular to the PS channels axis when the current density varied from 3 to 10 mA/cm{sup 2}. Nevertheless, they reveal a no magnetic anisotropy of CoFeCu nanostructures deposited only in the outside of porous silicon, probably due to the vanishing the shape anisotropy. - Highlights: • CoFeCu deposit has been electrodeposited on self assembled mesoporous silicon. • SEM observation shows that CoFeCu embedded in Porous silicon channels. • Magnetic measurements show the anisotropy magnetic behavior of CoFeCu nanostructures. • The growth rate of nanowires is enhanced with an increase of current density.

The structural, electronic, and elastic properties of CuFeS2 have been investigated by using the generalized gradient approximation (GGA), GGA + U (on-site Coulomb repulsion energy), the local density approximation (LDA), and the LDA + U approach in the frame of density functional theory. It is shown that when the GGA + U formalism is selected with a U value of 3 eV for the 3d state of Fe, the calculated lattice constants agree well with the available experimental and other theoretical data. Our GGA + U calculations indicate that CuFeS2 is a semiconductor with a band gap of 0.552 eV and with a magnetic moment of 3.64 µB per Fe atom, which are well consistent with the experimental results. Combined with the density of states, the band structure characteristics of CuFeS2 have been analyzed and their origins have been specified, which reveals a hybridization existing between Fe-3d, Cu-3s, and S-3p, respectively. The charge and Mulliken population analyses indicate that CuFeS2 is a covalent crystal. Moreover, the calculated elastic constants prove that CuFeS2 is mechanically stable but anisotropic. The bulk modulus obtained from elastic constants is 87.1 GPa, which agrees well with the experimental value of 91 ± 15 GPa and better than the theoretical bulk modulus 74 GPa obtained from GGA method by Lazewski et al. The obtained shear modulus and Debye temperature are 21.0 GPa and 287 K, respectively, and the latter accords well with the available experimental value. It is expected that our work can provide useful information to further investigate CuFeS2 from both the experimental and theoretical sides.

Cu- and Fe/SSZ-13 catalysts with the same Cu(Fe)/Al ratios are synthesized using the same parent SSZ-13 starting material. The catalytic performance for both fresh and hydrothermally aged catalysts is tested with NO and NH3 oxidation, and standard SCR reactions under steady-state conditions, and standard and fast SCR under temperature-programmed conditions. For standard SCR, Cu/SSZ-13 shows much better low-temperature performance which can be explained by NH3-inhibition of Fe/SSZ-13. During hydrothermal aging, both catalysts undergo dealumination but Fe/SSZ-13 dealuminates more severely. For aged catalysts, Cu/SSZ-13 gains oxidation activities due to formation of CuOx. However, Fe/SSZ-13 loses oxidation activities although formation of FeOx clusters and FeAlOx species also occur. Because of such physical properties differences, aged Cu/SSZ-13 loses while Fe/SSZ-13 maintains high-temperature SCR selectivities. A physical mixture of aged catalysts provides stable SCR performance in a wide temperature range and is able to decrease N2O formation at high reaction temperatures. This suggests that Fe/SSZ-13 can be used as a cocatalyst for Cu/SSZ-13 for transportation applications. During temperature-programmed SCR reactions, weak hysteresis is found during standard SCR due to NH3 inhibition. For fast SCR, hysteresis caused by NH4NO3 inhibition is much more significant. NH4NO3 deposition is greatly enhanced by Brønsted and Lewis acidity of the catalysts.

In this work the results of the study of the stability of the traps are presented in dosemeters Tl of LiF: Mg,Cu,P, irradiated with gamma radiation of {sup 60} Co. The studied dosemeters were of LiF: Mg,Cu,P + Ptfe, developed in the ININ, taking like reference to the commercial dosemeter GR200A of Chinese manufacture. Before being exposed to the radiation, the dosemeters received their standard treatment from having erased, two hours after the irradiation they took the initial readings. The dosemeters faded again and they were irradiated to the same dose, soon after they stayed under normal conditions, protected of the light, later on they were taken their readings periodically during six months. The readings taken Tl the same day of the irradiation presented four peaks whose energy, determined by the deconvolution method were; 1.30 {+-} 0.01 eV, 1.50 {+-} 0.01 eV, 1.70 {+-} 0.01 eV and 2.58 {+-} 0.02 eV, for LiF: Mg,Cu,P + Ptfe, while GR200A stops the energy they were: 1.33 {+-} 0.11 eV, 1.58 {+-} 0.11 eV, 1.73 {+-} 0.11 eV and 2.60 {+-} 0.03 eV. In both cases the peak 1, with the energy but it lowers, it disappears completely after some later hours to the irradiation, while the peak 2, it disappears completely after 122 days for the local dosemeter and after 94 days for the commercial dosemeter. The energy of the peaks 3 and 4 that remained visible during the whole period of study it was: 1.38 {+-} 0.01 eV and 2.65 {+-} 0.01 eV, for LiF: Mg,Cu,P + Ptfe respectively, in the same order for GR200A, the energies were: 1.51 {+-} 0.02 eV and 2.64 {+-} 0.03 eV. In all the cases the peaks with energy below 2 eV, showed tendency to the drop, while the main peak, showed certain tendency to increase, as they show it the results. (Author)

Introduction Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is defined as one of the inflammatory autoimmune disorders and is common. Its exact etiology is unclear. There are some evidences on the role of environmental factors in susceptible genetics. The aim of this study is to evaluate the possible role of Selenium, Zinc, Copper, Lead and Magnesium metals in Multiple Sclerosis patients. Methods In the present analytical cross-sectional study, 56 individuals including 26 patients and 30 healthy controls were enrolled in the evaluation. The serum level of Se, Zn, Cu, Pb were quantified in graphite furnace conditions and flame conditions by utilizing an atomic absorption Perkin Elmer spectrophotometer 3030. The serum levels of Mg were measured by auto analyzer 1500 BT. The mean level of minerals (Zn, Pb, Cu, Mg, Se) in serum samples were compared in both cases and controls. The mean level of minerals (Zn, Pb, Cu, Mg, Se) in serum samples were compared in both cases and controls by using independent-samples t-test for normal distribution and Mann-Whitney U test as a non-parametric test. All statistical analyses were carried out using SPSS 11.0. Results As well as the Zn, Cu, and Se, there was no significant difference between MS patients and healthy individuals in Pb concentrations (p-value = 0.11, 0.14, 0.32, 0.20 respectively) but the level of Mg was significantly different (p= 0.001). Conclusion All serum concentrations of Zn, Pb, Se, Cu in both groups were in normal ranges and there was no difference in MS patients compared with the healthy group who were matched in genetics. Blood level of Mg was significantly lower in MS patients. But it should be noted that even with the low level of serum magnesium in MS patients, this value is still in the normal range. PMID:27757186

We studied the CoFeB thickness and composition dependence of tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) and resistance-area product (RA) in a modified CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB perpendicular magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ), in which the bottom CoFeB is coupled to an in-plane exchange biased magnetic layer. This stack structure allows us to measure TMR and RA of the MTJs in sheet film format without patterning them, using current-in-plane-tunneling (CIPT) technique. The thickness ranges for both top and bottom CoFeB to exhibit perpendicular magnetic anisotropy are similar to what are seen in each single magnetic film stack. However, CIPT measurement revealed that there exists an optimal thickness for both top and bottom CoFeB to achieve the highest TMR value. Magnetic hysteresis loops also suggest the thickness-dependent coupling between the top and bottom CoFeB layers. We studied MTJs with two CoFeB compositions (Co40Fe40B20 and Co20Fe60B20) and found that Co20Fe60B20 MTJs give higher TMR and also wider perpendicular thickness range when used at the top layer.

The catalysts of Fe, Co and Ni supported on MgO were prepared by the means of impregnation. Methanol decomposition over Fe/MgO, Co/MgO and Ni/MgO catalysts were systematically investigated at 600℃. The results indicated that the production of H2 by methanol decomposition could be realized over these catalysts and carbon nano-tubes were produced at the same time. Ni/MgO was the best one among the three catalysts.%采用浸渍法制备出3种MgO负载型过渡金属催化剂Fe/MgO、Co/MgO和Ni/MgO,系统研究了甲醇在3种催化剂上于600℃下的裂解产物.结果表明,3种催化剂均能催化甲醇裂解产生富氢气体,同时产生碳纳米管.其中,Ni/MgO具有最佳的催化效果.

The self-organization and magnetic properties of small iron and cobalt nanostructures embedded into the first layer of a Cu(100) surface are investigated using the self-learning kinetic Monte Carlo method and density functional theory. The similarities and differences between the Fe/Cu(100) and the Co/Cu(100) are underlined. The time evolution of magnetic properties of a copper monolayer with embedded magnetic atoms at 380 K is discussed.

The exploration of electric field controlled magnetism has come under scrutiny for its intriguing magnetoelectric phenomenon as well as technological advances in spintronics. Herein, the tremendous effect of an epitaxial strain on voltage-controlled perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (VPMA) is demonstrated in a transition-metal|ferromagnet|MgO (TM|FM|MgO) heterostructure from first-principles electronic structure computation. By tuning the epitaxial strain in Ta|Fe|MgO as a model system of TM|FM|MgO, we find distinctly different behaviours of VPMA from V- to Λ-shape trends with a substantially large magnetoelectric coefficient, up to an order of 10(3) fJV(-1)m(-1). We further reveal that the VPMA modulation under strain is mainly governed by the inherently large spin-orbit coupling of Ta 5d-Fe 3d hybridized orbitals at the TM|FM interface, although the Fe 3d-O 2p hybridization at the FM|MgO interface is partly responsible in determining the PMA of Ta|Fe|MgO. These results suggest that the control of epitaxial strain enables the engineering of VPMA, and provides physical insights for the divergent behaviors of VPMA and magnetoelectric coefficients found in TM|FM|MgO experiments.

The exploration of electric field controlled magnetism has come under scrutiny for its intriguing magnetoelectric phenomenon as well as technological advances in spintronics. Herein, the tremendous effect of an epitaxial strain on voltage-controlled perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (VPMA) is demonstrated in a transition-metal|ferromagnet|MgO (TM|FM|MgO) heterostructure from first-principles electronic structure computation. By tuning the epitaxial strain in Ta|Fe|MgO as a model system of TM|FM|MgO, we find distinctly different behaviours of VPMA from V- to Λ-shape trends with a substantially large magnetoelectric coefficient, up to an order of 103 fJV‑1m‑1. We further reveal that the VPMA modulation under strain is mainly governed by the inherently large spin-orbit coupling of Ta 5d–Fe 3d hybridized orbitals at the TM|FM interface, although the Fe 3d–O 2p hybridization at the FM|MgO interface is partly responsible in determining the PMA of Ta|Fe|MgO. These results suggest that the control of epitaxial strain enables the engineering of VPMA, and provides physical insights for the divergent behaviors of VPMA and magnetoelectric coefficients found in TM|FM|MgO experiments.

Mg-based metal hydrides are promising as hydrogen storage materials for fuel cell application. In this work, Mg2 FeH6 complex hydride phase was synthesized by controlled reactive ball milling of 2Mg-Fe (atomic ratio)powder mixture in H2. Mg2 FeH6 is confirmed to be formed via the following three stages: formation of MgH2 via the reaction of Mg with H2, incubation stage and formation of Mg2 FeH6 by reaction of fully refined MgH2 and Fe.The incubation stage is characterized by no traces of Mg or hydride crystalline phase by XRD. On the other hand,Mg is observed uniformly distributed in the milled powder by SEM-EDS. Also, almost the same amount of H2 as the first stage is detected stored in the powders of the second stage by DSC and TGA.

Magnetic properties of Co40Fe40B20(CoFeB) thin films sandwiched between Ta and MgAl2O4layers have been systematically studied. For as-grown state, Ta/CoFeB/MgAl2O4structures exhibit good perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) with interface anisotropy Ki=1.22erg/cm2, which further increases to 1.30erg/cm2after annealing, while MgAl2O4/CoFeB/Ta multilayer shows in-plane magnetic anisotropy and must be annealed in order to achieve PMA. For bottom CoFeB layer, the thickness window for PMA is from 0.6 to 1.0nm, while that for top CoFeB layer is between 0.8 and 1.4nm. Perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions (p-MTJs) with a core structure of CoFeB/MgAl2O4/CoFeB have also been fabricated and tunneling magnetoresistance ratio of about 36% at room temperature and 63% at low temperature have been obtained. The intrinsic excitations in the p-MTJs have been identified by inelastic electron-tunneling spectroscopy.

corA encodes the constitutively expressed primary Mg2+ uptake system of most eubacteria and many archaea. Recently, a mutation in corA was reported to make Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium markedly resistant to Fe2+-mediated toxicity. Mechanistically, this was hypothesized to be from an ability of CorA to mediate the influx of Fe2+. Consequently, we directly examined Fe2+ transport and toxicity in wild-type versus corA cells. As determined by direct transport assay, CorA cannot transport Fe2+ and Fe2+ does not potently inhibit CorA transport of 63Ni2+. Mg2+ can, relatively weakly, inhibit Fe2+ uptake, but inhibition is not dependent on the presence of a functional corA allele. Although excess Fe2+ was slightly toxic to S. enterica serovar Typhimurium, we were unable to elicit a significant differential sensitivity in a wild-type versus a corA strain. We conclude that CorA does not transport Fe2+ and that the relationship, if any, between iron toxicity and corA is indirect.

The successful synthesis of nanoparticles of Fe-bearing kuramite, (Cu,Fe)3SnS4, is reported in this study. Nanocrystalline powders were obtained through a mild, environmentally friendly and scalable solvothermal approach, in a single run. The sample was the object of a multidisciplinary investigation, including X-ray diffraction and absorption, scanning electron microscopy and microanalysis, electron paramagnetic resonance, diffuse reflectance and Mössbauer spectroscopy as well as SQUID magnetometry. The nanoparticles consist of pure Fe-bearing kuramite, exhibiting tetragonal structure. The valence state of the metal cations was assessed to be Cu+, Sn4+ and Fe3+. The material presents a band gap value of 1.6 eV, which is fully compatible with solar cell applications. The uptake of Fe by nanokuramite opens a compositional field where the physical properties can be tuned. We thus foster the application of Fe-bearing nanokuramite for photovoltaics and energy storage purposes.

We studied the impact of different insertion layers (Ta, Pt, and Mg) at the CoFeB|MgO interface on voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy (VCMA) effect and other magnetic properties. Inserting a very thin Mg layer of 0.1-0.3 nm yielded a VCMA coefficient of 100 fJ/V-m, more than 3 times higher than the average values of around 30 fJ/V-m reported in Ta|CoFeB|MgO-based structures. Ta and Pt insertion layers also showed a small improvement, yielding VCMA coefficients around 40 fJ/V-m. Electrical, magnetic, and X-ray diffraction results reveal that a Mg insertion layer of around 1.2 nm gives rise to the highest perpendicular magnetic anisotropy, saturation magnetization, as well as the best CoFe and MgO crystallinity. Other Mg insertion thicknesses give rise to either under- or over-oxidation of the CoFe|MgO interface; a strong over-oxidation of the CoFe layer leads to the maximum VCMA effect. These results show that precise control over the Mg insertion thickness and CoFe oxidation level at the CoFeB|MgO interface is crucial for the development of electric-field-controlled perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions with low write voltage.

The generation and evolution of open volume defects in underaged and T3 Al-Cu-Mg alloy is studied with positron annihilation spectroscopy. During room temperature ageing the positron lifetime in plastically deformed, underaged material approaches the saturation lifetime of the undeformed material. Doppler-broadening results indicate that this behaviour can be attributed to diffusion and clustering of retained solute Cu atoms at the deformation defects, a process of relevance for the introduction of a self-healing mechanism in age-hardenable aluminium alloys.

A material asymmetry Co/Cu/Fe junction structure has been prepared for studying the spin-polarized electron injection at 77K. The sample performance was demonstrated to be analogous to that of a bipolar transistor. The maximal value of the output pulse voltage between Cu and Fe layers could reach the order of severalμV when the bias current between Co and Cu layers was 10μA. The interface roughness, photograph of material, magnetic loop and injection characteristic curves have been measured. Some important points on this topic have been discussed.

Since biological functions of the elements are generally different, depending on their chemical forms, chemical speciation analysis is really important in metallomics research. Thus, multielement analysis and chemical speciation of the elements in serum were carried out in the present work. A hyphenated technique was developed for high-throughput speciation analysis of the copper, iron and zinc in serum by molecular biology technology and flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). Here, Cu, Fe and Zn in serum were classifyied as the forms of combination and non-combination. The serum protein was precipitated by 60% concentration of ethanol under hypothermy. The forms of combination of Cu, Fe and Zn in serum which combined with proteins were in precipitations, and the forms of non-combination of Cu, Fe and Zn in serum, which were free ions, were in supernatant. The total amount of Cu, Fe and Zn in serum and the amount of the forms of non-combination of Cu, Fe and Zn were analyzed by AAS. The amount of the forms of combination of Cu, Fe and Zn was obtained by calculation. The detection limit of Cu in serum by the method is around and 9.84 x 10(-3) microg x mL(-1). For Fe and Zn, the detection limit is about 2.76 x 10(-2) microg x mL(-1) and 1.06 x 10(-3) microg x mL(-1), respectively. The percentage recovery of trace elements Cu, Fe and Zn by the proposed procedure is in the range 95.0%-101.0%, 95.0%-102.0% and 95.0%-103.0%, respectively. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of trace elements Cu, Fe and Zn in the serum is in the range 1.88%-2.26%, 0.56%-1.59% and 0.34%-1.36%, respectively. Speciation of trace elements Cu, Fe and Zn in the serum of SD rat were analyzed by the method.

Perpendicularly magnetized tunnel junctions (p-MTJs) show promise as reliable candidates for next-generation memory due to their outstanding features. However, several key challenges remain that affect CoFeB/MgO-based p-MTJ performance. One significant issue is the low thermal stability (Δ) due to the rapid perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) degradation during annealing at temperatures greater than 300 °C. Thus, the ability to provide thermally robust PMA characteristics is a key steps towards extending the use of these materials. Here, we examine the influence of a W spacer on double MgO/CoFeB/W/CoFeB/MgO frames as a generic alternative layer to ensure thermally-robust PMAs at temperatures up to 425 °C. The thickness-dependent magnetic features of the W layer were evaluated at various annealing temperatures to confirm the presence of strong ferromagnetic interlayer coupling at an optimized 0.55 nm W spacer thickness. Using this W layer we achieved a higher Δ of 78 for an approximately circular 20 nm diameter free layer device.

Full Text Available In L10 (fct-FePt thin films, both tuning Fe and Pt concentrations and substitution with third-metal were studied for magnetic characteristic optimization. We investigated single-crystalline FePt-X (X = Mn, Ni, Cu thin films grown epitaxially on MgO(001 substrates at a substrate temperature of 350 °C by changing Fe, Pt, and X contents, and explored the effects of off-stoichiometry and 3d-metal-substitution. The magnetic moment per atom (m of FePt-X films as a function of the effective number of valence electrons (neff in 3d metal sites follows the Slater-Pauling-type trend, by which m decreases by the neff deviation from neff = 8, independently of the X metal and the Pt concentration. The magnetic anisotropy (Ku exhibits neff dependence similar to m. This trend was almost independent of the Pt concentration after compensation using the theoretical prediction on the relation between Ku and Fe/Pt concentrations. Such a trend has been proved for stoichiometric FePt-X films, but it was clarified as robust against off-stoichiometry. The compensated Ku ( K u comp of FePt-Mn and FePt-Cu followed a similar trend to that predicted by the rigid-band model, although the K u comp of the FePt-Mn thin films dropped more rapidly than the rigid band calculation. However, it followed the recent first-principles calculation.

In L10 (fct)-FePt thin films, both tuning Fe and Pt concentrations and substitution with third-metal were studied for magnetic characteristic optimization. We investigated single-crystalline FePt-X (X = Mn, Ni, Cu) thin films grown epitaxially on MgO(001) substrates at a substrate temperature of 350 °C by changing Fe, Pt, and X contents, and explored the effects of off-stoichiometry and 3d-metal-substitution. The magnetic moment per atom (m) of FePt-X films as a function of the effective number of valence electrons (neff) in 3d metal sites follows the Slater-Pauling-type trend, by which m decreases by the neff deviation from neff = 8, independently of the X metal and the Pt concentration. The magnetic anisotropy (Ku) exhibits neff dependence similar to m. This trend was almost independent of the Pt concentration after compensation using the theoretical prediction on the relation between Ku and Fe/Pt concentrations. Such a trend has been proved for stoichiometric FePt-X films, but it was clarified as robust against off-stoichiometry. The compensated Ku ( Ku comp ) of FePt-Mn and FePt-Cu followed a similar trend to that predicted by the rigid-band model, although the Ku comp of the FePt-Mn thin films dropped more rapidly than the rigid band calculation. However, it followed the recent first-principles calculation.

Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-chitosan grafted onto graphene oxide (xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO) was synthesized. • Xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO demonstrates the high affinity to Cu(II) ions. • The adsorbent can be effectively reused to remove Cu(II) ions. - Abstract: Novel nanocomposites of xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-chitosan grafted onto graphene oxide (xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO) were successfully synthesized for the first time using an amidation reaction. The xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO was used to remove Cu(II) from aqueous solutions. The xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO was characterized using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The Cu(II) adsorption isotherms for the xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO fitted the Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum Cu(II) adsorption capacity of the xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO was 426.8 mg g{sup −1}, which is much higher than the maximum adsorption capacities of other adsorbents that have been described in the literature. This was attributed to xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO having abundant functional groups. The xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO could be regenerated using ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid, and could easily be removed from a liquid using an external magnetic field. These features would allow secondary pollution of the environment to be avoided more easily than is the case for other adsorbents. Cu(II) was adsorbed from aqueous solutions quickly and efficiently by the xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO complex, suggesting that xanthated Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}-CS-GO may be an ideal candidate for removing Cu(II) from wastewater.

Full Text Available The effect of extended H2 sorption cycles on the structure and on the hydrogen storage performances of MgH2 powders with 5 wt% of Fe particle catalyst is reported. MgH2 powders with and without Fe have been ball milled under Argon, the doped MgH2 nanocomposite has been cycled under hydrogen pressure up to a maximum of 47 desorption and absorption cycles at 300 °C. After acceleration during the first 10 cycles, the kinetics behavior of doped MgH2 is constant after extended cycling, in terms of maximum storage capacity and rate of sorption. The major effect of cycling on particle morphology is the progressive extraction of Mg from the MgO shell surrounding the powder particles. The Mg extraction from the MgO shell leaves the catalyst particles inside the hydride particles. Many empty MgO shells are observed in the pure ball milled MgH2 upon cycling at higher temperature, suggesting that this enhancement of the extraction efficiency is related to the higher operating temperature which favors Mg diffusivity with respect to the H ion one.

The evolution of the morphology, magnetic and transport properties of Fe(t nm)/MgO(3.0 nm) multilayers with respect to the nominal metallic layer thickness was investigated. A comparison with existing experimental data on discontinuous metal-insulator multilayers, ultrathin epitaxial Fe films on MgO substrates and granular cermet films is made. It is confirmed that the deposition conditions and the material composition play a crucial role in the percolation process. Nominal thicknesses of Fe layers at which an infinite metallic cluster is formed and the conditions for continuous Fe coverage were determined. Different methods of percolation threshold detection were analysed. We show that investigation of the temperature dependence of resistance in nanostructures could lead to an overestimation of the percolation threshold value, while magnetic measurements alone could lead to its underestimation.

The charge-mediated effect of electric field on the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) of Fe/MgO interfaces is investigated using first-principles calculations. We present an approach by discussing this effect in relation to the intrinsic dipole field existing at the Fe/MgO interface. A firm correlation between the PMA and the interfacial dipole is established and further verified in the absence of an applied electric field. The on-site projected PMA analysis not only elucidates that the effect of electric field on the PMA extends beyond the interfacial Fe layer, but also shows that the second Fe layer carries the largest contribution to the effect. This observation is interpreted in relation to the orbital hybridization changes induced by applying an electric field.

Pure CuO and Fe-doped CuO nanostructures with different weight ratios (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 at wt% of Fe) were synthesized via the microwave combustion method. The synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). XRD patterns refined by the Rietveld method indicated the formation of single-phase monoclinic structure and also confirmed that Fe ions successfully incorporated into CuO crystal lattice by occupying Cu ionic sites. Interestingly, the morphology was found to change considerably from nanoflowers to nano-rod and disk-shaped then to nanoparticles with the variation of Fe content. The optical band gap calculated using DRS was found to be 2.8 eV for pure CuO and increases up to 3.4 eV with increasing ‘Fe’ content. Photoluminescence measurements also confirm these results. The magnetic measurements indicated that the obtained nanostructures are found to be room temperature ferromagnetism (RTF) with an optimum value of saturation magnetization at 2.0 wt% of Fe-doped CuO, i.e. 1.2960×10-3 emu/g.

Mixed oxygen-ionic and electronic conducting membranes of SrFe(Cu)O3-δ were prepared by solid-state reaction method.The crystal structure,oxygen nonstoichiometry,and phase stability of the materials were studied by TGA and XRD.Oxygen permeation fluxes through these membranes were studied at operating temperature ranging from 750 to 950 ℃.Results showed that doping Cu in SrFeO3-δ compound had a significant effect on the formation of single-phased perovskite structure.For SrFe1-xCuxO3-δ series materials,the oxygen nonstoichiometry and the oxygen permeation flux increased considerably with the increase of Cu-doping content (x = 0.1-0.3).The sintering property of the membrane decreased significantly when the Cu substitution amount reached 40%.SrFe0.7CU0.3O3-δ showed high oxygen permeation flux,but SrCuO2 and Sr2Fe2O5 phases formed in the compound after oxygen permeation test induced cracks in the membrane.

Fe-Cu thin films of 0.2μm in thickness with different Cu contents were prepared byusing r.f. magnetron sputtering onto glass substrate. The effect of sputtering param-eters, including Ar gas pressure and input rf power, on the structure and magneticproperties was investigated. It was found that when the power is lower than 70W,the structure of the films remained single bcc-Fe phase with Cu solubility of up to50at.%. TEM observations for the bcc-Fe phase showed that the grain size was inthe nanometer range of less than 20nm. The coercivity of Fe-Cu films was largelyaffected by not only Ar gas pressure but also rf power, and reached about 2.5Oe in thepressure of 0.67-6.67Pa and in the power of less than 100W. In addition, saturationmagnetization, with Cu content less than 60at.%, was about proportional to the con-tent of bcc-Fe. When Cu content was at 60at.%, however, saturation magnetizationwas much smaller than its calculation value.

A new ternary Fe-based alloy catalyst FeCuP applied to decompose PH3 was prepared with low-cost material by chemical reduction deposition method. The properties of it were characterized by XRD, ICP and SEM. Its catalytic activity on the decomposition of PH3 and the decomposition conditions were studied. FeCuP alloy exhibits high thermal stabilities and high catalytic activity. Using it as catalyst, the decomposition temperature of phosphine decreases from over 800 ℃ to 400-500 ℃. The decomposition rate of phosphine achieved 100%.

We present new results on the separation of the atomic-partial vibrational density of states for the ternary quasicrystal i-Al sub 6 sub 2 Cu sub 2 sub 5 sub . sub 5 Fe sub 1 sub 2 sub . sub 5. The decomposition into three atomic-partial functions, Al-, Cu- and Fe-g(E), has been performed self-consistently with the calculation of the multi-phonon contributions. The results show the surprising result that both Cu- and Fe-g(E) are strongly peaked. The low-energy regions of Al- and Cu-g(E) show strong deviations from Debye behaviour due to the presence of non-propagating low-energy vibrational states. (orig.)

The exploration of electric field controlled magnetism has come under scrutiny for its intriguing magnetoelectric phenomenon as well as technological advances in spintronics. Herein, the tremendous effect of an epitaxial strain on voltage-controlled perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (VPMA) is demonstrated in a transition-metal/ferromagnet/MgO (TM/FM/MgO) heterostructure from first-principles electronic structure computation. By tuning the epitaxial strain in Ta/Fe/MgO as a model system of TM/FM/MgO, we find distinctly different behaviours of VPMA from V- to {\\Lambda}-shape trends with a substantially large magnetoelectric coefficient, up to an order of 1000 fJ/Vm. We further reveal that the VPMA modulation under strain is mainly governed by the inherently large spin-orbit coupling of Ta 5d-Fe 3d hybridized orbitals at the TM/FM interface, although the Fe 3d-O 2p hybridization at the FM/MgO is partly responsible in determining the PMA of Ta/Fe/MgO. These results suggest that the control of epitaxial strain ena...

A detailed interface study was conducted on a Fe/MgO/Fe system using laser assisted 3D atom probe. It exhibits an additional oxide formation at the second interface of the multilayer structure independent of laser wavelength, laser fluence and the thickness of the tunnel barrier. We have shown with the help of simulation that this phenomena is caused by the field evaporation of two layers having two different evaporation

Cu plays an important role in the embrittlement of pressure vessel steels under radiation and entities containing both Cu atoms and vacancies seem to appear as a consequence of displacement cascades. The characterisation of the stability as well as the migration of small Cu-vacancy complexes is thus necessary to understand and simulate the formation of these entities. For instance, cascade ageing studied by kinetic Monte Carlo or by rate theory models requires a good characterisation of such complexes which are parameters for these methods. We have investigated, by ab initio calculations based on the density functional theory, point defects and small defects in dilute FeCu alloys. The structure of small Cu clusters and Cu-vacancy complexes has been determined, as well as their formation and binding energies. Their relative stability is discussed. Vacancy migration energies in the presence of Cu atoms have been calculated and analysed. All the results are compared to the figures obtained with empirical interat...

In this research, inverse spinel copper ferrite nanoparticles (CuFe2O4 NPs) were synthesized via citrate-nitrate combustion method. The crystal structure, particle size, morphology and magnetic studies were investigated using various instrumental tools to illustrate the formation of the inverse spinel structure. Mossbauer spectrometry identified Fe is located both in the tetrahedral and octahedral site in the ratio (40:60) and the observed magnetic parameters values such as saturation magnetization (Ms = 20.62 emu g-1), remnant magnetization (Mr = 11.66 emu g-1) and coercivity (Hc = 63.1 mTesla) revealed that the synthesized CuFe2O4 NPs have a typical ferromagnetic behaviour. Also tested CuFe2O4 nanoparticles as a photocatalyst for the decolourisation of methylene blue (MB) in the presence of peroxydisulphate as the oxidant.

Thermal programmed desorption (TPD) of CO2 and H2O from a 200 nm thick CuFeO2 Delafossite surface was performed in a standard UHV chamber, The CuFeO2 thin film grown using Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD) over an Al2O3 (0001) substrate with controlled O2 atmosphere resulted with highly epitaxial crystal structure. The adsorption/desorption of CO2 and H2O process was also monitored with X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES). Our results revealed that carbon dioxide interacts with CuFeO2 forming Fe carbonates compounds on its surface. Hydroxides were also formed on the surface due to water presence. Using TPD data, Arrhenius plots for CO2 and water desorption were done and activation energy for desorption was obtained. Funds FONDECyT 1130372; Thanks to P. Ferrari.

A series of manganese-promoted MgAlFe mixed oxides,used as sulfur transfer catalysts,were prepared by acid-processed gelatin method and characterized by TGA-DTA,XRD,N2 adsorption-desorption and FT-IR techniques.It was found that the sulfur transfer catalysts with 0.5-3.0 wt% manganese showed its good dispersion in the precursor.The novel Mn/MgAlFe catalysts with 0.5-5.0 wt% manganese oxide showed a high oxidative adsorption rate and sulfur adsorption capacity,and 5.0 wt% Mn/MgAlFe sample was superior to the others for SO2 removal.Moreover,the presence of CO had no obvious effect on the adsorption activity of sulfur transfer catalysts for SO2 uptake.

We found that CoFeB|MgO|Ta tunnel junctions exhibit tunnel anisotropic magnetoresistance (TAMR) at room temperature. The tunnel junctions exhibit positive magnetoresistance with the application of a magnetic field normal to the film plane. The dependencies on the applied magnetic field angle and MgO thickness reveal that the magnetoresistance originates from the TAMR, caused by the spin polarization and the spin-orbit interaction at the CoFeB|MgO interface. We also found that the TAMR can be used to detect ferromagnetic resonance in the CoFeB. This detection method could be useful for the characterization of nanomagnets that are free from the spin-transfer effect and the stray field of a reference layer, unlike conventional magnetic tunnel junctions.

Full Text Available Chill casting of magnesium alloy samples with secondary alloying elements of Cu, Ca and Sn at % w.t. concentrations in the range 1–5, 0.1–5 and 0.1–3 respectively, gave rise to appreciably enhanced resistance to high-temperature creep, while maintaining good heat conductivity. The latter was considered to be driven by Cu and Mg-Cu intermetallics while it was clear that Sn mediated the high-temperature performance, mainly via networks of Mg2Sn and MgCaSn precipitates along the Mg matrix grain boundaries. It was postulated that Sn formed intermetallics by preferential substitution of Ca atoms and, thus, did not degrade the heat conductivity by retaining Cu. The % w.t. stoichiometry with the optimum combination of heat conductivity and resistance to high-temperature creep was found to be Mg-3Cu-1Ca-0.1Sn.

The microstmcture characteristics of AlSiCuMg cast alloys were studied with different Cu content and the gradual solution treatment by DSC, SEM, TEM and mechanical method. The melting point of α(Al) + Si decreases and polynary eutectic phases with low melting point form with increase of Cu content. Gradual solution treatment includes two steps:solution treating near the melting point of polynary eutectic phase to take it dissolve first, and then increasing solution temperature to take the remainder copper intermetallics dissolved into o(Al). Grain boundaries melting can be avoided by gradual solution treatment, even the maximum solution temperature is above final solidification point, and the age hardening response increases correspondingly.

The effect on the formation of vacancy-solute clusters by the addition of small percentages of Cu to Al-Zn-Mg has been studied by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. The results document the ability of Cu to increase the number of vacancies retained after quenching, by forming an additional population of vacancy-solute clusters in competition with pure Zn clusters. It has also been shown that Cu accelerates the decomposition of the alloy at 150 , thereby leaving a reduced supersaturation of the matrix after an early interruption. An unexpected result is that the curve positron lifetime vs, ageing time at RT displays the symptoms of a change in the nature of the coherent aggregates that occurs in about 10 hours of RT exposure. (copyright 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Spin-transfer-torque magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM) attracts extensive attentions due to its non-volatility, high density and low power consumption. The core device in STT-MRAM is CoFeB/MgO-based magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ), which possesses a high tunnel magnetoresistance ratio as well as a large value of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). It has been experimentally proven that a capping layer coating on CoFeB layer is essential to obtain a strong PMA. However, the physical mechanism of such effect remains unclear. In this paper, we investigate the origin of the PMA in MgO/CoFe/metallic capping layer structures by using a first-principles computation scheme. The trend of PMA variation with different capping materials agrees well with experimental results. We find that interfacial PMA in the three-layer structures comes from both the MgO/CoFe and CoFe/capping layer interfaces, which can be analyzed separately. Furthermore, the PMAs in the CoFe/capping layer interfaces are analyzed through resolving the magnetic anisotropy energy by layer and orbital. The variation of PMA with different capping materials is attributed to the different hybridizations of both d and p orbitals via spin-orbit coupling. This work can significantly benefit the research and development of nanoscale STT-MRAM.

Spin-transfer-torque magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM) attracts extensive attentions due to its non-volatility, high density and low power consumption. The core device in STT-MRAM is CoFeB/MgO-based magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ), which possesses a high tunnel magnetoresistance ratio as well as a large value of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). It has been experimentally proven that a capping layer coating on CoFeB layer is essential to obtain a strong PMA. However, the physical mechanism of such effect remains unclear. In this paper, we investigate the origin of the PMA in MgO/CoFe/metallic capping layer structures by using a first-principles computation scheme. The trend of PMA variation with different capping materials agrees well with experimental results. We find that interfacial PMA in the three-layer structures comes from both the MgO/CoFe and CoFe/capping layer interfaces, which can be analyzed separately. Furthermore, the PMAs in the CoFe/capping layer interfaces are analyzed through resolving the magnetic anisotropy energy by layer and orbital. The variation of PMA with different capping materials is attributed to the different hybridizations of both d and p orbitals via spin-orbit coupling. This work can significantly benefit the research and development of nanoscale STT-MRAM.

Full Text Available Nanocrystalline and bulk samples of “Fe”-doped CuO were prepared by coprecipitation and ceramic methods. Structural and compositional analyses were performed using X-ray diffraction, SEM, and EDAX. Traces of secondary phases such as CuFe2O4, Fe3O4, and α-Fe2O3 having peaks very close to that of the host CuO were identified from the Rietveld profile analysis and the SAED pattern of bulk and nanocrystalline Cu0.98Fe0.02O samples. Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM measurements show hysteresis at 300 K for all the samples. The ferrimagnetic Neel transition temperature ( was found to be around 465°C irrespective of the content of “Fe”, which is close to the value of cubic CuFe2O4. High-pressure X-Ray diffraction studies were performed on 2% “Fe”-doped bulk CuO using synchrotron radiation. From the absence of any strong new peaks at high pressure, it is evident that the secondary phases if present could be less than the level of detection. Cu2O, which is diamagnetic by nature, was also doped with 1% of “Fe” and was found to show paramagnetic behavior in contrast to the “Fe” doped CuO. Hence the possibility of intrinsic magnetization of “Fe”-doped CuO apart from the secondary phases is discussed based on the magnetization and charge state of “Fe” and the host into which it is substituted.

Full Text Available The tannin fractions isolated from hazelnuts, walnuts and almonds were characterised by colorimetric assays and by an SE-HPLC technique. The complexation of Cu(II and Zn(II was determined by the reaction with tetramethylmurexide, whereas for Fe(II, ferrozine was employed. The walnut tannins exhibited a significantly weaker reaction with the vanillin/HCl reagent than hazelnut and almond tannins, but the protein precipitation capacity of the walnut fraction was high. The SE-HPLC chromatogram of the tannin fraction from hazelnuts revealed the presence of oligomers with higher molecular weights compared to that of almonds. Copper ions were most effectively chelated by the constituents of the tannin fractions of hazelnuts, walnuts and almonds. At a 0.2 mg/assay addition level, the walnut tannins complexed almost 100% Cu(II. The Fe(II complexation capacities of the tannin fractions of walnuts and hazelnuts were weaker in comparison to that of the almond tannin fraction, which at a 2.5 mg/assay addition level, bound Fe(II by ~90%. The capacity to chelate Zn(II was quite varied for the different nut tannin fractions: almond tannins bound as much as 84% Zn(II, whereas the value for walnut tannins was only 8.7%; and for hazelnut tannins, no Zn(II chelation took place at the levels tested.

Ambient pressure Moessbauer spectra of Mg(0.9)Fe-57(0.1)SiO3 perovskite synthesized at pressure-temperature conditions of about 50 GPa and 1700 K show that the iron is entirely high-spin Fe(2+) and appears to be primarily located in the octahedral site within the crystal structure. We observe broad Moessbauer lines, suggesting a distribution of electric-field gradients caused by disorder associated with the Fe ions. Also, the perovskite exhibits magnetic ordering at temperatures lower than 5 K, implying that there is a magnetic contribution to the absolute ('third-law') entropy of this phase.

corA encodes the constitutively expressed primary Mg2+ uptake system of most eubacteria and many archaea. Recently, a mutation in corA was reported to make Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium markedly resistant to Fe2+-mediated toxicity. Mechanistically, this was hypothesized to be from an ability of CorA to mediate the influx of Fe2+. Consequently, we directly examined Fe2+ transport and toxicity in wild-type versus corA cells. As determined by direct transport assay, CorA cannot transpo...

First principles density functional theory and generalised gradient approximation (GGA) have been exploited to investigate Fe-doped ilmenite-type MgSiO{sub 3} mineral. Strong electron correlation effects not included in a density-functional formalism are described by a Hubbard-type on-site Coulomb repulsion (the DFT+U approach). Microstructure of equilibrium geometries, electronic band structures as well as magnetic properties are computed and discussed in detail. Hartree-Fock methodology is used as an extra tool to study optical properties of the same system. For equilibrium state of the doped mineral we find zigzag-type atomic rearrangements around the Fe impurity. The inclusion of correlation effects leads to an improved description of the electronic properties. In particular, it is discovered that Fe incorporation produces local energy levels within the band-gap of the material. Using {Delta}SCF method optical absorption energies are found to be equal to 2.2 and 2.6 eV leading to light absorption at longer wavelengths compared to the undoped MgSiO{sub 3}. Our results provide evidence on the occurrence of local magnetic moment in the region surrounding iron dopant. According to the outcomes, the Fe Rightwards-Double-Arrow Mg reaction can be described as substitutionally labile with Fe{sup 2+} complex being found in the high-spin state at low pressure MgSiO{sub 3}-ilmenite conditions.

Magnetic tunnel junction based on the CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB structures is of great interest due to its application in the spin-transfer-torque magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM). Large interfacial perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) is required to achieve high thermal stability. Here, we use the first-principles calculations to investigate the magnetic anisotropy energy (MAE) of the MgO/CoFe/capping layer structures, where the capping materials include 5d metals Hf, Ta, Re, Os, Ir, Pt, and Au and 6p metals Tl, Pb, and Bi. We demonstrate that it is feasible to enhance PMA by using proper capping materials. Relatively large PMA is found in the structures with the capping materials of Hf, Ta, Os, Ir, and Pb. More importantly, the MgO/CoFe/Bi structure gives rise to giant PMA (6.09 mJ/m2), which is about three times larger than that of the MgO/CoFe/Ta structure. The origin of the MAE is elucidated by examining the contributions to MAE from each atomic layer and orbital. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the PMA and point towards the possibility to achieve the advanced-node STT-MRAM with high thermal stability.

We present a theoretical study of the tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) and spin-polarized transport in Fe{sub 3}Si/MgO/Fe{sub 3}Si(001) magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ). It is found that the spin-polarized conductance and bias-dependent TMR ratios are rather sensitive to the structure of Fe{sub 3}Si electrode. From the symmetry analysis of the band structures, we found that there is no spin-polarized Δ{sub 1} symmetry bands crossing the Fermi level for the cubic Fe{sub 3}Si. In contrast, the tetragonal Fe{sub 3}Si driven by in-plane strain reveals half-metal nature in terms of Δ{sub 1} state. The giant TMR ratios are predicted for both MTJs with cubic and tetragonal Fe{sub 3}Si electrodes under zero bias. However, the giant TMR ratio resulting from interface resonant transmission for the former decreases rapidly with the bias. For the latter, the giant TMR ratio can maintain up to larger bias due to coherent transmission through the majority-spin Δ{sub 1} channel.

Previous studies have shown that using biodegradable magnesium alloys such as Mg-Zn and Mg-Zn-Al possess the appropriate mechanical properties and biocompatibility to serve in a multitude of biological applications ranging from endovascular to orthopedic and fixation devices. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of novel as-cast magnesium alloys Mg-1Zn-1Cu wt.% and Mg-1Zn-1Se wt.% as potential implantable biomedical materials, and compare their biologically effecti...

The detection of Fe/Mg smectites and carbonate in Noachian and early Hesperian terrain of Mars has been used to suggest that neutral to mildly alkaline conditions prevailed during the early history of Mars. However, if early Mars was neutral to moderately alkaline with a denser CO2 atmosphere than today, then large carbonates deposits should be more widely detected in Noachian terrain. The critical question is: Why have so few carbonate deposits been detected compared to Fe/Mg smectites? We suggest that Fe/Mg smectites on early Mars formed under mildly acidic conditions, which would inhibit the extensive formation of carbonate deposits. The goal of this work is to evaluate the formation of Fe/Mg smectites under mildly acidic conditions. The stability of smectites under mildly acidic conditions is attributed to elevated Fe/Mg activities that inhibit smectite dissolution. Beidelite and saponite have been shown to form from hydrothermal alteration of basaltic glass at pH 3.5-4.0 in seawater solutions. Nontronite is also known to be stable in mildly acidic systems associated with mafic and ultramafic rock. Nontronite was shown to form in acid sulfate soils in the Bangkok Plain, Thailand due to oxidation of Fe-sulfides that transformed saponite to nontronite. Smectite is known to transform to kaolinite in naturally acid soils due to selective leaching of Mg. However, if Mg removal is limited, then based on equilibrium relationships, the dissolution of smectite should be minimized. If Fe and Mg solution activities are sufficiently high, such as might be found in a low water/rock ratio system that is poorly drained, smectite could form and remain stable under mildly acidic conditions on Mars. The sources of mild acidity on early Mars includes elevated atmospheric CO2 levels, Fe-hydrolysis reactions, and the presence of volcanic SO2 aerosols. Equilibrium calculations dictate that water equilibrated with an early Mars CO2 atmosphere at 1 to 4 bar yields a pH of 3.6 to 3

The detection of Fe/Mg smectites and carbonate in Noachian and early Hesperian terrain of Mars has been used to suggest that neutral to mildly alkaline conditions prevailed during the early history of Mars. However, if early Mars was neutral to moderately alkaline with a denser CO2 atmosphere than today, then "large" carbonates deposits should be more widely detected in Noachian terrain. The critical question is: Why have so few carbonate deposits been detected compared to Fe/Mg smectites? We suggest that Fe/Mg smectites on early Mars formed under mildly acidic conditions, which would inhibit the extensive formation of carbonate deposits. The goal of this work is to evaluate the formation of Fe/Mg smectites under mildly acidic conditions. The stability of smectites under mildly acidic conditions is attributed to elevated Fe/Mg activities that inhibit smectite dissolution. Beidelite and saponite have been shown to form from hydrothermal alteration of basaltic glass at pH 3.5-4.0 in seawater solutions. Nontronite is also known to be stable in mildly acidic systems associated with mafic and ultramafic rock. Nontronite was shown to form in acid sulfate soils in the Bangkok Plain, Thailand due to oxidation of Fe-sulfides that transformed saponite to nontronite. Smectite is known to transform to kaolinite in naturally acid soils due to selective leaching of Mg. However, if Mg removal is limited, then based on equilibrium relationships, the dissolution of smectite should be minimized. If Fe and Mg solution activities are sufficiently high, such as might be found in a low water/rock ratio system that is poorly drained, smectite could form and remain stable under mildly acidic conditions on Mars. The sources of mild acidity on early Mars includes elevated atmospheric CO2 levels, Fe-hydrolysis reactions, and the presence of volcanic SO2 aerosols. Equilibrium calculations dictate that water equilibrated with an early Mars CO2 atmosphere at 1 to 4 bar yields a pH of 3.6 to 3

Full Text Available The Mg/Fe = 3 hydrotalcite as reusable solid catalyst was found to be an excellent heterogeneous base catalyst for the synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidinones/thiones, a multicomponent reaction using substituted aromatic aldehyde, ethyl acetoacetate and urea/thiourea. The work has been carried out under thermal solvent free conditions. Mg/Fe = 3 hydrotalcite heterogeneous solid catalyst offers simple means of recovery and the isolated catalyst was reused for number of times without significant loss of catalytic activity.

The magnetic properties of exchange coupled composite(ECC)media that are composed of perpendicular magnetic recording media FePt-MgO and two kinds of soft layers have been studied by using an x-ray diffractometer,a polar Kerr magneto-optical system(PMOKE)and a vibrating sample magnetometer(VSM).The results show that ECC media can reduce the coercivities of perpendicular magnetic recording media FePt-MgO.The ECC media with granular-type soft layers have weaker exchange couplings between magnetic grains and the magnetization process,for ECC media of this kind mainly follow the Stoner-Wohlfarth model.

The MgB2 formation was analyzed physically and chemically and the MgB2/Fe wires were fabricated by powder in tube (PIT) technology. The microstructureof MgB2 in wires was studied by the scanning electrical microscope (SEM), whichshows a good connection of grains and the size of MgB2 grain is 1-3μm. The results of Jc measured by the standard four probes method show that Jc value reaches 6.1×104 A/cm2 at 20 K in self field.

A series of copper ion substituted MAl2O4 (M = Mg, Mn, Fe and Zn) spinels is prepared by a single step solution combustion synthesis (SCS) and tested for methanol steam reforming (MSR). The copper ion substituted Cu0.1Fe0.9Al2O4 appears to be the most active, showing ∼98% methanol conversion at 300 °C with ∼5% CO selectivity at GHSV = 30,000 h-1 and H2O:CH3OH = 1.1. The analogous impregnated catalyst, CuO (10 at%)/FeAl2O4, is found to be much less active. These materials are characterized by XRD, H2-TPR, BET, HRTEM, XPS and XANES analyses. Spinel phase formation is highly facilitated upon Cu-ion substitution and Cu loading beyond 10 at% leads to the formation of CuO as an additional phase. The ionic substitution of copper in FeAl2O4 leads to the highly crystalline SCS catalyst containing Cu2+ ion sites that are shown to be more active than the dispersed CuO nano-crystallites on the FeAl2O4 impregnated catalyst, despite its lower surface area. The as prepared SCS catalyst contains also a portion of copper as Cu1+ that increases when subjected to reforming atmosphere. The MSR activity of the SCS catalyst decreases with time-on-stream due to the sintering of catalyst crystallites as established from XPS and HRTEM analyses.

The oxidation of two two-phase ternary Fe-Cu-Al alloys containing about 5% Al(mole fraction),one Fe-rich and one Cu-rich,were studied at 700 ℃ in 1×105 Pa pure oxygen. The Fe-rich alloy (Fe-15Cu-5Al) shows two quasi-parabolic stages,with a large increase of the parabolic rate constant after about 4 h. The presence of 5% Al does not change greatly the oxidation rate of Fe-15Cu-5Al with respect to a binary Fe-Cu alloy of similar composition,which was quite different from the situation of the same alloys oxidized at 800 ℃. Oxidation of Fe-15Cu-5Al at 700 ℃ produced an outer layer of iron oxides and an inner layer containing a mixture of copper metal,iron and aluminium oxide. On the contrary,the Cu-rich Fe-85Cu-5Al alloy presents a rather irregular kinetic behavior,with formation of an inner continuous alumina thin layer and a rather irregular outer layer. The outer layer with a rather irregular thickness was mainly composed of a matrix of copper oxides plus some aluminium and iron oxides presenting in the deep part of the layer at certain locations. As a result of the formation of a protective alumina layer,the presence of 5% Al greatly reduced the oxidation rate of Fe-85Cu-5Al with respect to a binary Fe-Cu alloy of similar composition,which was also quite different from the situation of the same alloys oxidized at 800 ℃. Moreover,the oxidation rate at 700 ℃ of the Fe-85Cu-5Al alloy was much lower than that of Fe-15Cu-5Al alloy due to the same reason..

The hot deformation behavior of Al-Cu-Mg-Ag was studied by isothermal hot compression tests in the temperature range of 573-773 K and strain rate range of 0.001-1 s-1 on a Gleeble 1500 D thermal mechanical simulator. The results show the flow stress of Al-Cu-Mg-Ag alloy increases with strain rate and decreases after a peak value, indicating dynamic recovery and recrystallization. A hyperbolic sine relationship is found to correlate well the flow stress with the strain rate and temperature, the flow stress equation is estimated to illustrate the relation of strain rate and stress and temperature during high temperature deformation process. The processing maps exhibit two domains as optimum fields for hot deformation at different strains, including the high strain rate domain in 623-773 K and the low strain rate domain in 573-673 K.

Full Text Available The article presents the analysis of properties of the high-strength AlZnMgCu (abbr AlZn aluminium alloy and estimates possibilities of its application for responsible structures with reduced weight as an alternative to iron alloy castings. The aim of the conducted studies was to develop and select the best heat treatment regime for a 7xx casting alloy based on high-strength materials for plastic working from the 7xxx series. For analysis, wrought AlZnMgCu alloy (7075 was selected. Its potential of the estimated as-cast mechanical properties indicates a broad spectrum of possible applications for automotive parts and in the armaments industry. The resulting tensile and fatigue properties support the thesis adopted, while the design works further confirm these assumptions.

The novel catalysts xMg-2.3Cu/SBA-15 with copper and magnesium oxide co-supported on mesoporous silica were synthesized by an impregnation method. The newly synthesized catalysts were characterized using a series of techniques such as BET, XRD, H2-TPR, UV-vis, XPS, EDS and TEM. The catalytic performance was evaluated by using selective oxidation of cyclohexane with molecular oxygen as the oxidant in a solvent free system. The incorporation of magnesium improved the dispersion of copper oxide and prevented the deep oxidation of cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone. The selectivity of K/A oil was up to 99.3% with 12% conversion of cyclohexane over the 1.2Mg-2.3Cu/SBA-15 catalyst. To our knowledge, this is the best result for the heterogeneous oxidation of cyclohexane by O2.

The influence of heating rate on the thermoluminescence (TL) property of LiF:Mg,Cu,P+PTFE was analyzed. The activation energy and the frequency factor as a function of the heating rate were determined. The kinetic parameters and their dependence on the heating rate were evaluated using the sequential quadratic programming glow curve deconvolution (SQPGCD). The results showed that as the heating rate increases, the peak intensity at the maximum (I{sub M}) decreases and shifts to higher temperature; similar behavior of the kinetics parameters was observed. - Highlights: >Heating rate influence on the thermoluminescence (TL) property of LiF:Mg,Cu,P was analyzed. > The kinetic parameters, activation energy and frequency factor were evaluated using the sequential quadratic programming glow curve deconvolution. > The peak intensity at the maximum (I{sub M}) of the glow curves decreases. > Shifts to higher temperature were observed as the heating rate increased. > Similar behavior of the kinetics parameters was noticed.

In order to understand the importance of the retrogression and re-aging as a heat treatment for improving microstructural and mechanical properties of the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu powder metallurgy alloys, Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Fe-Cr alloys were fabricated from the elemental powders. Green compacts are compressed under compaction pressure about 370 MPa. The sintering process carried out for the samples of aluminum alloys at temperature was 650°C under argon atmosphere for two hours. The sintered compacts were subjected into homogenizing condition at 470°C for 1.5 hours and then aged at 120°C for 24 hours (T6 temper) after that it carried out the retrogressed at 180°C for 30 min., and then re-aged at 120°C for 24 hours (RRA). Observations microstructures were examined using optical, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Density and porosity content was conducted for the samples of alloys. The result showing that the highest Vickers hardness exhibited for an Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy after underwent the retrogression and reaging treatment. Increasing in hardness was because of the precipitation hardening through precipitate the (Mg Zn) and (Mg{sub 2}Zn{sub 11}) phases during matrix of aluminum-alloy.

Introduction & Objective: Iran is located in the dry and semi dry regions, thus almost 90% of the required fresh water is exploited from groundwater resources. Due to the increasing pol-lution of water resources, the purpose of this study was evaluation of Pb, Cd, Cu and Mg concentrations in groundwater resources of Razan Plain and preparing the zoning map using GIS. Materials & Methods: Groundwater samples were collected from 20 selected stations during two seasons in 2012. The samples were ...

Full Text Available We study the spin-orbit torque (SOT effective fields in Cr/CoFeAl/MgO and Ru/CoFeAl/MgO magnetic heterostructures using the adiabatic harmonic Hall measurement. High-quality perpendicular-magnetic-anisotropy CoFeAl layers were grown on Cr and Ru layers. The magnitudes of the SOT effective fields were found to significantly depend on the underlayer material (Cr or Ru as well as their thicknesses. The damping-like longitudinal effective field (ΔHL increases with increasing underlayer thickness for all heterostructures. In contrast, the field-like transverse effective field (ΔHT increases with increasing Ru thickness while it is almost constant or slightly decreases with increasing Cr thickness. The sign of ΔHL observed in the Cr-underlayer devices is opposite from that in the Ru-underlayer devices while ΔHT shows the same sign with a small magnitude. The opposite directions of ΔHL indicate that the signs of spin Hall angle in Cr and Ru are opposite, which are in good agreement with theoretical predictions. These results show sizable contribution from SOT even for elements with small spin orbit coupling such as 3d Cr and 4d Ru.

Full Text Available Mg, Fe co-doped near-stoichiometric lithium tantalite (SLT single crystals were grown by employing the zone-leveling Czochralski (ZLCz technique. The optical properties, holographic parameters, as well as the composition of the grown crystals were measured. It was found that the Li/Ta ratio decreased with the doping of Mg and Fe ions. A red shift was observed in absorption spectrum for the Mg, Fe co-doped crystals compared to the undoped and Mg-doped ones. The effect of the iron ions (Fe2+ and Fe3+ was further discussed based on the specified absorption bands. Moreover, the occupation mechanism for the defects was discussed by using the IR absorption spectrum, which was attributed to the FeTa3− defects in the highly Fe-doped crystal. In addition, the holographic parameters were also found to be improved with a higher Fe/Ta ratio in the crystals.

A study the with first principles calculation of the interfaces of the Ni layer or Cu layer on the Fe(100) surface formed with metal plating was performed. Ni or Cu atoms were shown to adopt the corresponding position to the bcc structure of the Fe(100) substrate. Other calculations showed that the interfaces of Ni (5 atomic layers)/Fe(100) (5 layers) or Cu (5 atomic layers)/Fe(100) (5 layers) had square lattices. The orientation relationship of Ni/Fe(100) interface corresponds to fcc-Ni(100)//bcc-Fe(100), Ni[011]//Fe[010], and Similar results were obtained for Cu/Fe(100) interfaces. This structure was supported by TEM analysis of plated Ni layer on Fe(100) surfaces. The adhesion strength of the Ni/Fe(100) interface evaluated by first principles calculation was higher than that of the Cu/Fe(100) interface. The experimental results of Hull cell iron plated with Ni or Cu supported the results of the calculation. These results indicate that the first principles calculation, which deals with the ideal interface at the atomic scale, has the potential to evaluate the adhesion strength of metallic material interfaces.

Full Text Available In this work the effect of Mg addition on structure as well as kinetics of crystallisation of Zn-Al-Cu cast alloy was presented. To the zinc alloy was added 0.1% mass of Mg. The alloy was cast into a metal mould. Thermo-derivative analysis was performed using the UMSA platform (Universal Metallurgical Simulator and Analyzer. The investigated alloys were freely cooled down with a rate of 0.1°C s-1. For the structure analysis were used results obtained using light microscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy.

We conducted multi-element isotopic analyses of 11 presolar silicate grains from the Acfer 094 meteorite having unusual O isotopic compositions. Eight grains are {sup 18}O-rich, one is {sup 16}O-rich, and two are extremely {sup 17}O-rich. We constrained the grains' stellar sources by measuring their Si and Mg isotopic ratios, and also the {sup 54}Fe/{sup 56}Fe and {sup 57}Fe/{sup 56}Fe ratios for five grains. The Mg and Fe isotopic measurements were conducted after surrounding matrix grains were removed for more accurate ratios. Most of the {sup 18}O-rich silicates had anomalous Mg isotopic ratios, and their combined isotopic constraints are consistent with origins in low-mass Type II supernovae (SNe II) rather than high-metallicity stars. The isotopic ratios of the {sup 16}O-rich silicate are also consistent with an SN origin. Mixing small amounts of interior stellar material with the stellar envelope replicated all measured isotopic ratios except for {sup 29}Si/{sup 28}Si and {sup 54}Fe/{sup 56}Fe in some grains. The {sup 29}Si/{sup 28}Si ratios of all SN-derived grains are matched by doubling the {sup 29}Si yield in the Ne- and Si-burning zones. The {sup 54}Fe/{sup 56}Fe ratios of the grains imply elemental fractionation in the Si/S zone, or introduction of isotopically solar Fe by secondary processing. The two highly {sup 17}O-rich silicates exhibited significant {sup 25}Mg and/or {sup 26}Mg enrichments and their isotopic ratios are best explained by strong dilution of 1.15 M {sub ☉} CO nova matter. We estimate that ∼12% and 1% of presolar silicates have SN and nova origins, respectively, similar to presolar SiC and oxides. This implies that asymptotic giant branch stars are the dominant dust producers in the galaxy.

Mg substituted NiCuZn ferrites were prepared through sol-gel method using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a chelating agent. The samples after annealing at 500 °C to remove PVA were sintered at 950 °C for 1 h. The structural and electromagnetic properties of the samples were investigated. All the samples showed single phase spinel structure with increased lattice constant as a function of Mg concentration. The morphology reveals polyhedral shaped grains with increased grain size as a function of Mg composition. Dielectric parameters showed low values at higher frequencies. The initial permeability increased with Mg substitution in place of Ni in accordance with the microstructure. The samples sintered at low temperature having low dielectric losses and improved permeability along with the high frequency stability of permeability find applications in multilayer chip inductors.

In this report, we examine the progress in adapting these nanomaterials for several predominantly photonics device fabrication by wet-chemical method. Nanocomposite of magnesium oxide (MgO) with copper oxide (CuO) doped nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and the observed peaks are quite agreeable with the pure phase cubic structure. High-resolution transmission electron microscopic (HR-TEM) results reveal that the resultant nanopowders are porous and agglomerated with polycrystalline nano-entities. Field emission of selected-area electron diffraction (SAED) studies showed that the average size of the nanoparticles were 20 nm. Photoluminescence spectra of MgO:CuO were investigated, showing emission peaks around 375 nm relating to new energy levels induced by defects or defect levels generation and confocal micro-Raman images indicated that the chemical molecular vibrational band structure and morphology of the product which is spherical shaped nanoparticles with an average particle size of ∼25 nm with standard deviation. The electrochemical response of MgO:CuO which is proves that the nano-copper/magnesium has high functionality due to the small size and it has higher electrochemical activity without any modifications.

Bulk amorphous (Mg(1-gamma)Al(gamma))(60)CU(30)Y(10) alloys were prepared using a relatively simple technique of rapid cooling of the melt in a copper wedge mould. The temperature vs, time was recorded during the cooling and solidification process of the melt and compared with a spacial and tempo......Bulk amorphous (Mg(1-gamma)Al(gamma))(60)CU(30)Y(10) alloys were prepared using a relatively simple technique of rapid cooling of the melt in a copper wedge mould. The temperature vs, time was recorded during the cooling and solidification process of the melt and compared with a spacial......-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) for different alloy compositions and annealing temperatures. On annealing into the supercooled liquid state (441 K), specimens with no Al content remain basically amorphous while nanoparticles are formed and remain stable also at higher...... temperatures in specimens containing a few percent Al. The alloy with no Al crystallises apparently without the formation of nanoparticles. The critical cooling rate for the formation of an amorphous Mg(60)CU(30)Y(10) specimen was determined experimentally by a combination of DSC data and temperature vs, time...

The synthesis of pure and Mg doped Copper aluminumoxide CuAlO2nanoparticles, a promising p-type TCO (transparent conducting oxide) have been done bysol gel auto combustion method using NaOH as a fuel, calcinated at 600°C. The structural properties were examined by XRD and SEM techniques. The optical absorption spectra of CuAlO2 sample recorded by UV-VIS spectrophotometer in the range of 200 to 800 nm have been presented. The crystallite size was determined by powder X-ray diffraction technique. The electrical behavior of pure and Mg doped CuAlO2 has been studied over a wide range of frequencies by using complex impedance spectroscopy.The variation of a.c. conductivity has been studied as function of frequency and temperature. The data taken together conclude that doping causes decreases in the ac conductivity of the nanoparticles as compared with the pure nanoparticles. Mg doping affects the optical properties and band gap.

Effects of the process parameters, including deformation temperature, punch velocity and extrusion ratio, on the deformation and microstructure characterization during the semi-solid extrusion of Al-4Cu-Mg alloy, were investigated. The experimental results show that the load decreases with an increase of deformation temperature and/or a decrease of punch velocity.When the displacement is more than 4 mm, the load decreases significantly with an increase of the deformation temperature, which is related to the high liquid fraction. The microstructure varies with the process parameters and deformation regions. It can be found that the dynamic recovery occurs during the semi-solid extrusion of Al-4Cu-Mg alloy at lower deformation temperature.Subsequently, the microstructure elongated gradually polygonizes with an increase of deformation temperature. So, the higher deformation temperature should be chosen during the semi-solid extrusion of Al-4Cu-Mg alloy because the grains polygonized and high liquid fractions are beneficial to deformation.

The synthesis of pure and Mg doped Copper aluminumoxide CuAlO{sub 2}nanoparticles, a promising p-type TCO (transparent conducting oxide) have been done bysol gel auto combustion method using NaOH as a fuel, calcinated at 600°C. The structural properties were examined by XRD and SEM techniques. The optical absorption spectra of CuAlO{sub 2} sample recorded by UV-VIS spectrophotometer in the range of 200 to 800 nm have been presented. The crystallite size was determined by powder X-ray diffraction technique. The electrical behavior of pure and Mg doped CuAlO{sub 2} has been studied over a wide range of frequencies by using complex impedance spectroscopy.The variation of a.c. conductivity has been studied as function of frequency and temperature. The data taken together conclude that doping causes decreases in the ac conductivity of the nanoparticles as compared with the pure nanoparticles. Mg doping affects the optical properties and band gap.

The purpose of the current study is to perform quasi static and high strain rate tensile tests on Al-4.8Cu-1.2Mg alloy under different strain rates ranging from 0.01–3500/s and also at temperatures of 25,100, 200 and 300 °C. The combined effect of strain rate, temperature and stress triaxiality on the material behavior is studied by testing both smooth and notched specimens. Johnson–Cook (J–C) constitutive and fracture models are established based on high strain rate tensile data obtained from Split hopkinson tension bar (SHTB) and quasi-static tests. By modifying the strain hardening and strain rate hardening terms in the Johnson–Cook (J–C) constitutive model, a new J–C constitutive model of Al-4.8Cu-1.2Mg alloy was obtained. The improved Johnson–Cook constitutive model matched the experiment results very well. With the Johnson–Cook constitutive and fracture models, numerical simulations of tensile tests at different conditions for Al-4.8Cu-1.2Mg alloy were conducted. Numerical simulations are performed using a non-linear explicit finite element code autodyn. Good agreement is obtained between the numerical simulation results and the experiment results. The fracture surfaces of specimens tested under various strain rates and temperatures were studied under scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

We investigated the recrystallization behavior of a cold-rolled CoCrCuFeNi high-entropy alloy (HEA). Two different face-centered cubic phases having different chemical compositions and lattice constants in the as-cast specimen have different chemical compositions: One phase was the Cu-lean matrix and the other was the Cu-rich second phase. The second phase remained even after a heat treatment at 1373 K (1100 °C) and Cu enriched more in the Cu-rich second phase. The calculated mixing enthalpies of both Cu-lean and Cu-rich phases in the as-cast and heat-treated specimens explained that Cu partitioning during the heat treatment decreased the mixing enthalpy in both phases. In the specimens 90 pct cold rolled and annealed at 923 K, 973 K, and 1073 K (650 °C, 700 °C, and 800 °C), recrystallization proceeded with increasing the annealing temperature, and ultrafine recrystallized grains with grain sizes around 1 μm could be obtained. The microhardness tended to decrease with increasing the fraction recrystallized, but it was found that the microhardness values of partially recrystallized specimens were much higher than those expected by a simple rule of mixture between the initial and cold-rolled specimens. The reason for the higher hardness was discussed based on the ultrafine grain size, sluggish diffusion expected in HEAs, and two-phase structure in the CoCrCuFeNi alloy.

The LiF: Mg, Cu, P is at the moment in the entire world one of the TL materials of more interest, by its equivalence with the tissue, as well as for its high sensitivity, which is 25 to 35 times greater than of the TLD-100 of Harshaw (USA). In our laboratory dosemeters of this material have been developed in form of sinterized pellets. The importance of these new dosemeters in pellet form is due to that in this form its manipulation is facilitated. Due to its high sensitivity, these dosemeters result to be those but appropriate to measure the ionizing radiations, in intervals of extremely low dose. In this report the method of elaboration of the pellets, as well as its main dosimetric characteristics are presented. (Author)

This paper presents the experimental results of determining the thermoluminescence (Tl) response of LiF: Mg, Cu, P + Ptfe pellets excited with {sup 90}Sr/{sup 90}Y beta radiation. The glow curve exhibited three peaks which appear at 121 C, 178 C and 217 C . Its relative sensitivity is 49 with respect to that of the TLD-100 dosemeter taken as a reference. The minimal dose that could be measured was 750 mGy. The Tl response as a function of dose was linear in the range of 0.7 mGy to 22.5 mGy. The study of the repeatability of the information contained in the pellets showed a standard deviation of 2 %. (Author)

In this work the method of preparation of a new material T L is described of LiF: Mg, Cu, P and the preliminary results of the tests corresponding to their dosimetric characterization are reported. The carried out tests were: detection threshold, sensitivity, dissipation of the sign T L, answer T L in function of the dose of radiation gamma, among others. The results showed that this material when receiving the one thermal treatment of having erased of 280 C by 10 min, followed by 100 C for two hours, he/she has a detection threshold ten times but I lower that that of the TLD-100, is 21 times but sensitive that that of reference and the dissipation of the sign T L during two months was null. This new material T L overcomes in many aspects to the commercial dosemeters of its type. (Author)

对金属型铸造Al-Si-Cu-Mg和Al-Si-Cu-Mg-Er铝合金进行了疲劳试验,并研究了其室温下的低周疲劳行为.试验结果表明:金属型铸造Al-Si-Cu-Mg和Al-Si-Cu-Mg-Er铝合金表现为循环应变硬化和循环稳定,主要取决于外加总应变的高低;稀土元素Er的加入可提高金属型铸造Al-Si-Cu-Mg合金的循环变形抗力和疲劳寿命;金属型铸造Al-Si-Cu-Mg合金的塑性应变、弹性应变与断裂时的载荷反向次数之间呈直线关系,Al-Si-Cu-Mg-Er合金的弹性应变与疲劳断裂时的载荷反向次数之间也呈直线关系,但其塑性应变与疲劳断裂时的载荷反向次数之间则呈双线性关系.%Through the strain-controlled fatigue experiments, the low-cycle fatigue behavior of permanent-mold cast Al-Si-Cu-Mg and Al-Si-Cu-Mg-Er alloys at room temperature was investigated.The experimental results show that the Al-Si-Cu-Mg and Al-Si-Cu-Mg-Er alloys exhibit the cyclic strain hardening and cyclic stability, mainly depending on the imposed total strain amplitude. For the permanent-mold cast Al-Si-Cu-Mg alloy, the addition of Er can effectively enhance both cyclic deformation resistance and fatigue life of the alloys. A single-slope linear relation between plastic strain amplitude, elastic strain amplitude and reversals to failure is observed for permanent-mold cast Al-Si-Cu-Mg alloy. However, a two-slope linear relation between plastic strain amplitude and reversals to failure is noted for the Al-Si-Cu-Mg-Er alloy, although the corresponding relation between elastic strain amplitude and reversals to failure is linear.

The radio-photoluminescent (RPL) characteristics of LiF:Mg,Ti (MTS) and LiF:Mg,Cu,P (MCP) thermoluminescent detectors, routinely used in radiation protection dosimetry, were investigated after irradiation with ultra-high electron doses ranging up to 1 MGy. The photoluminescence of both types of LiF detectors was stimulated by a blue light (460 nm) and measured within a spectral window around 530 nm. The RPL dose response was found to be linear up to 50 kGy and sublinear in the range of 50 kGy to 1 MGy for MCP detectors and linear up to 3 kGy and next sublinear in the range from 5 kGy to 1 MGy for MTS detectors. For both type of LiF detectors RPL signal is saturated for doses higher than 100 kGy. The observed differences between MCP and MTS may suggest, that the RPL effect in LiF is not entirely governed by intrinsic defects (F2 and F3+ centers), but impurities may also have a significant influence. Due to the non-destructive character of the RPL measurement, it is suggested to apply combined RPL/TL readouts, ...

Temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) and temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) were used to study the effects of Cu and Ca promotion on Fe-Zn-based Fischer-Tropsch catalysts. The reduction temperature for Fe2O3 → Fe3O4 was unaffected by Ca addition but decreased when promoted with Cu. Fe-Zn promoted with Cu and Ca showed even much lower reduction temperature for Fe2O3→Fe3O4. Ca promotion enhances carburization and increases surface acidity and basicity of the Fe-Zn oxide precursor. While Cu inhibits carburization and decreases the surface acidity and basicity of the Fe-Zn oxide precursor. The implications of these effects on the application of catalysts for FT are discussed.

We study the effects of Cu substitution in Fe1.1Te, the nonsuperconducting parent compound of the iron-based superconductor, Fe1+yTe1-xSex, utilizing neutron scattering techniques. It is found that the structural and magnetic transitions, which occur at ˜60 K without Cu, are monotonically depressed with increasing Cu content. By 10% Cu for Fe, the structural transition is hardly detectable, and the system becomes a spin glass below 22 K, with a slightly incommensurate ordering wave vector of (0.5-δ, 0, 0.5) with δ being the incommensurability of 0.02, and correlation length of 12 Å along the a axis and 9 Å along the c axis. With 4% Cu, both transition temperatures are at 41 K, though short-range incommensurate order at (0.42, 0, 0.5) is present at 60 K. With further cooling, the incommensurability decreases linearly with temperature down to 37 K, below which there is a first-order transition to a long-range almost-commensurate antiferromagnetic structure. A spin anisotropy gap of 4.5 meV is also observed in this compound. Our results show that the weakly magnetic Cu has a large effect on the magnetic correlations; it is suggested that this is caused by the frustration of the exchange interactions between the coupled Fe spins.

We study the effects of Cu substitution in Fe1.1Te, the non-superconducting parent compound of the iron-based superconductor, Fe1+yTe1 xSex, utilizing neutron scattering techniques. It is found that the structural and magnetic transitions, which occur at 60 K without Cu, are monotonically depressed with increasing Cu content. By 10% Cu for Fe, the structural transition is hardly detectable, and the system becomes a spin glass below 22 K, with a slightly incommensurate ordering wave vector of (0.48, 0, 0.5), and correlation length of 12 A along the a axis and 9 A along the c axis. With 4% Cu, both transition temperatures are at 41 K, though short-range incommensurate order at (0.42, 0, 0.5) is present at 60 K. With further cooling, the incommensurability decreases linearly with temperature down to 37 K, below which there is a first order transition to a longrange almost-commensurate antiferromagnetic structure. A spin anisotropy gap of 4.5 meV is also observed in this compound. Our results show that the weakly magnetic Cu has large effects on the magnetic correlations; it is suggested that this is caused by the frustration of the exchange interactions between the coupled Fe spins.

Conjugated amino-phthalocyanine copper containing carboxyl groups/magnetite (NH2-CuPc@Fe3O4) has been fabricated from FeCl3·6H2O and NH2-CuPc via a simple solvothermal method and its electromagnetic properties investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the NH2-CuPc@Fe3O4 was a waxberry-like nanomaterial with NH2-CuPc molecules effectively embedded in the interior of Fe3O4 particles in the form of beads. Introduction of NH2-CuPc effectively improved the complementarity between the dielectric and magnetic losses of the system, resulting in excellent electromagnetic performance. The minimum reflection loss of the as-prepared composite reached -33.4 dB at 7.0 GHz for coating layer thickness of 4.0 mm and bandwidth below -10.0 dB (90% absorption) of up to 3.8 GHz. These results indicate that introduction of NH2-CuPc results in a composite with potential for use as an electromagnetic microwave absorption material.

The pure and Fe-doped CuO nanoparticles of the series Cu(1-x)Fe(x)O (x = 0.00, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06 and 0.08) were successfully prepared by a simple low temperature sol-gel method using metal nitrates and citric acid. Rietveld refinement of the X-ray diffraction data showed that all the samples were single phase crystallized in monoclinic structure of space group C2/c with average crystallite size of about 25 nm and unit cell volume decreases with increasing iron doping concentration. TEM micrograph showed nearly spherical shaped agglomerated particles of 4% Fe-doped CuO with average diameter 26 nm. Pure CuO showed weak ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature with coercive field of 67 Oe. The ferromagnetic properties were greatly enhanced with Fe-doping in the CuO matrix. All the doped samples showed ferromagnetism at room temperature with a noticeable coercive field. Saturation magnetization increases with increasing Fe-doping, becomes highest for 4% doping then decreases for further doping which confirms that the ferromagnetism in these nanoparticles are intrinsic and are not resulting from any impurity phases. The ZFC and FC branches of the temperature dependent magnetization (measured in the range of 10-350 K by SQUID magnetometer) look like typical ferromagnetic nanoparticles and indicates that the ferromagnetic Curie temperature is above 350 K.

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We use a new method (laser cladding) to prepare high-entropy alloy. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We gained small microstructure under rapid solidification condition. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We studied corrosion resistance of AlCrFeCuCo high-entropy alloy in two different liquids. - Abstract: The AlCrFeCuCo high-entropy alloys were prepared by the laser cladding method. The microstructure and corrosion resistance property of AlCrFeCuCo high-entropy alloy were researched by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and electrochemical workstation. The results show that, under the rapid solidification small microstructure gained, the morphology of AlCrFeCuCo high entropy alloy is simple, the phase mainly compose of FCC and BCC; elements segregated in the alloys; the alloy shows excellent corrosion resistance, along with the increase of the scanning speed, alloy corrosion resistance performance shows a enhancement in the first and then weakened trend. The corrosion resistance performance of AlCrFeCuCo high-entropy alloys in 1 mol/L NaCl solution is better than in 0.5 mol/L H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} solution.

Fe3O4@His@Cu magnetic recyclable nanocatalyst (MRCs) was synthesized by reflux method using L-histidine as linker. The composition, structure and magnetic property of the product were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). Powder XRD, FT-IR and EDAX results confirmed that the as-synthesized products has Fe3O4 with spinel structure and Cu nanoparticles with moderate crystallinity without any other impurities. The surface of the Fe3O4@His nanocomposite was covered by tiny Cu nanoparticles. We examine the catalytic activity of Fe3O4@His@Cu MRCs for the degradation of two azo dyes, methyl orange (MO) and methylene blue (MB) as well as their mixture. The reusability of the nanocatalyst was good and sustained even after 3 cycles. Therefore this innovated Fe3O4@His@Cu MRCs has a potential to be used for purification of waste water.

The CoFe/Cu magnetic multilayers were produced by changing CoFe ferromagnetic layers from 3 nm to 10 nm using electrodeposition. By now, the thinnest Cu (0.5 nm) layer thicknesses were used to see whether the GMR effect in the multilayers can be obtained or not since the pinning of non-magnetic layer between the ferromagnetic layers is required. For the proper depositions, the cyclic voltammograms was used, and the current-time transients were obtained. The Cu and CoFe layers were deposited at a cathode potential of -0.3 and -1.5 V with respect to saturated calomel electrode, respectively. From the XRD patterns, the multilayers were shown to be fcc crystal structures. For the magnetization measurements, saturation magnetization increases from 160 to 600 kA/m from 3 to 8 nm ferromagnetic layer thicknesses. And, the coercivity values increase until the 8 nm of the CoFe layer thickness. It is seen that the thin Cu layer (fixed at 0.5 nm) and pinholes support the random magnetization orientation and thus all multilayers exhibited the giant magnetoresistance (GMR) effect, and the highest GMR value was observed about 5.5%. And, the variation of GMR field sensitivity was calculated. The results show that the GMR and GMR sensitivity are compatible among the multilayers. The CoFe/Cu magnetic multilayers having GMR properties are used in GMR sensors and hard disk drive of the nano-technological devices.

Full Text Available The objective of this study was to determine the concentrations As, Cu, Fe, and Zn in the livers, gills, and muscles of vobla or Caspian roach, Rutilus caspicus (Yakovlev, and bighead goby, Neogobius gorlap (Iljin, from the Miankaleh wetland. The results showed that metal accumulation in the liver tissues was higher than in the gills and muscles for all metals, and Fe concentration was higher than Zn, Cu, and As in all the tissues studied. The concentrations of As, Cu, Fe, and Zn in the livers, gills, and muscles of bighead goby were higher than in vobla tissues, except for concentrations of As in the muscles. Fe, Cu, and Zn concentrations in the muscles were below the maximum permissible limit of the WHO and the FAO for both species, but the concentration of As in the muscles of both species exceeded the permissible limit proposed by the FAO; thus, human consumption should be limited. The levels of the other metals (Fe, Cu and Zn were completely safe.

The microstructure of Cu{sub 80}Fe{sub 10}Ni{sub 10} (at%) granular ribbon was investigated by means of atom probe tomography (APT). A granular system is composed of magnetic precipitates embedded in a non-magnetic matrix. In this ribbon, the magnetic precipitates have a diameter smaller than 5 nm in the as-spun state, and their crystallographic structure is very similar to the one of the matrix, which makes it difficult to characterize them using conventional techniques. Those data are of great importance to understand the magnetic and the transport behaviour of these ribbons. Using atom probe tomography, a 3D reconstruction of the microstructure of the as-spun and annealed ribbons was achieved and a precise characterization of the compositions of the two phases and of the composition profile at interfaces was carried out. In the as-spun state the composition of the matrix is Cu{sub 89}Fe{sub 3}Ni{sub 8}, the one of the precipitates is Cu{sub 30}Fe{sub 40}Ni{sub 30}. Upon annealing, the precipitates get enriched in iron. After annealing at 600 {sup o}C for 24 h, the measured compositions are close to the one predicted by Thermocalc, with Cu{sub 94}Fe{sub 1}Ni{sub 5} for the matrix and Cu{sub 5}Fe{sub 64}Ni{sub 31} for the precipitates.

The microstructure of Cu(80)Fe(10)Ni(10) (at%) granular ribbon was investigated by means of atom probe tomography (APT). A granular system is composed of magnetic precipitates embedded in a non-magnetic matrix. In this ribbon, the magnetic precipitates have a diameter smaller than 5nm in the as-spun state, and their crystallographic structure is very similar to the one of the matrix, which makes it difficult to characterize them using conventional techniques. Those data are of great importance to understand the magnetic and the transport behaviour of these ribbons. Using atom probe tomography, a 3D reconstruction of the microstructure of the as-spun and annealed ribbons was achieved and a precise characterization of the compositions of the two phases and of the composition profile at interfaces was carried out. In the as-spun state the composition of the matrix is Cu(89)Fe(3)Ni(8), the one of the precipitates is Cu(30)Fe(40)Ni(30). Upon annealing, the precipitates get enriched in iron. After annealing at 600 degrees C for 24h, the measured compositions are close to the one predicted by Thermocalc, with Cu(94)Fe(1)Ni(5) for the matrix and Cu(5)Fe(64)Ni(31) for the precipitates.

The present high-pressure studies of CuFeO2 to 30 GPa using x-ray diffraction, along with F57e Mössbauer and Fe and CuK -edge x-ray absorption spectroscopy methods, reveal a sequence of intricate structural/electronic-magnetic pressure-induced transitions. The low-pressure R3¯m structure (0-18 GPa) is composed of sheets of FeS=5/23+ ions alternating with layers of O-CuS=01+-O dumbbells, the latter oriented along the c axis. This structure is characterized by an unusual positive d(c/a)/dP . At 18 GPa a structural transition takes place to a more isotropic C2/c structure with the O-CuS=01+-O axis tilted 28° from the c axis and with negative d(c/a)/dP . This transition corroborates with the onset of long-range antiferromagnetic order. Starting at ˜23GPa , with an initial volume reduction in ˜|ΔV/V0|=0.16 , the Cu-Fe bands overlap and this leads to a (CuS=01+FeS=5/23+)→(CuS=1/22+FeS=22+) interionic valence exchange in about 1/3 of the C2/c-CuFeO2 at 27 GPa. As a result: (i) the Cu2+-O becomes fourfold coordinated and is in a new crystallographic structure with space group P3¯m , and (ii) the Néel temperature increases above twofold [TN(CuS=1/22+FeS=22+)≈2.2TN(CuS=01+FeS=5/23+)] . This sequence of transitions is reversible with minimal hysteresis.

Short range order of amorphous Mg60Cu30Y10 was investigated by x-ray and neutron diffraction, Cu and Y K-edge x-ray absorption fine structure measurements, and the reverse Monte Carlo simulation technique. We found that Mg-Mg and Mg-Cu nearest neighbor distances are very similar to values found i...

Weldalite (trademark) 049 is an Al-Cu-Li-Ag-Mg alloy that is strengthened in artificially aged tempers primarily by very thin plate-like precipitates lying on the set of (111) matrix planes. This precipitate might be expected to be the T(sub 1) phase, Al2CuLi, which has been observed in Al-Cu-Li alloys. However, in several ways this precipitate is similar to the omega phase which also appears as the set of (111) planes plates and is found in Al-Cu-Ag-Mg alloys. The study was undertaken to identify the set of (111) planes precipitate or precipitates in Weldalite (trademark) 049 in the T8 (stretched and artificially aged) temper, and to determine whether T(sub 1), omega, or some other phase is primarily responsible for the high strength (i.e., 700 MPa tensile strength) in this Al-Cu-Li-Ag-Mg alloy.

The investigation of MTJs with a high tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) is very important for the production of MRAM devices. All our CoFeB layers are prepared via magnetron sputtering and MgO barriers via e-beam evaporation. We investigate the magnetic switching properties of CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB MTJs with measurements of hysteresis curves - using the magneto-optical Kerr effect - and TMR curves, optimizing the thickness of the CoFeB layers. Another parameter we change to optimize the ferromagnetic CoFeB electrodes is the annealing temperature. Both influence the solid state epitaxy leading to crystallization directly at the MgO/CoFeB interface. The optimization of MgO barrier properties is also necessary for the quality of our devices. In this context we study the TMR behaviour with the variation of the sample temperature during the e-beam evaporation of MgO barrier.

The interfacial tension of the matte/halo-Norilsk basalt slag systems of FeS-Cu2S-Ni3S2 and FeO-FeS were investigated using the sessile drop technique. The results indicate that interfacial tension decreases with increasing copper and nickel contents in the matte of FeS-Cu2S-Ni3S2 system while it increases with increasing oxygen content in the matte of FeO-FeS system. It is inferred from these results that two conditions are critical for the formation of giant Cu-Ni sulfide deposits. One is that mafic-ultramafic parent magma of sulfide deposits should be rich in copper and nickel where due to the low interfacial tension, it is difficult to form sulfide droplet in the early stage of magma evolution. In other words, sulfide liquid conglomeration occurs more difficultly. The other condition is that the magma emplacement should be shallow; and a lot of faults occur in the magma emplacement field. Since oxygen content is high in the environment, interfacial tension is high, which helps sulfide liquid conglomeration and consequently Cu-Ni sulfide deposits form.

An iron oxide-clinoptilolite system was synthesized by adding natural clinoptilolite in an iron nitrate solution under strongly basic condition. The newly synthesized material has a red-brown color. A combination of XRD, FTIR and EPR spectroscopies, as well as specific surface area measurements and TG/DSC thermal analyses provided information on the type of Fe species located on the zeolite surface. Clinoptilolite seems to maintain its structure, while Fe(3+) species are in a symmetric environment (Th or Oh). The new material has a noteworthy high value of specific surface area (151 m(2)g(-1)) and is fully iron exchanged (Fe/Al=1.23). Differences in FTIR and TG/DSC spectrograms between the Fe-Clin system and untreated Clin were reported and explained. According to Cu adsorption/desorption experiments, carried out after the synthesis and characterization procedures, the Fe-Clin system is a promising new material since it adsorbs significantly larger Cu concentrations than clinoptilolite. This fact is owed to its high specific surface area and to its high negative surface charge. Desorption of Cu was also examined and it was observed that the Fe-Clin system desorbs smaller Cu amounts than untreated clinoptilolite.

The most popular types of LiF-based thermoluminescent (TL) detectors, LiF:Mg,Ti (MTS-N) and LiF:Mg,Cu,P (MCP-N), have been investigated, with respect to their dose (fluence) response and relative TL efficiency to different ion species. The detectors were irradiated using the nitrogen, iron, krypt...

Compositional data for nonmare (highlands) samples suggest that the Moon's mg ratio (MgO/FeO) is higher than general estimates. Geochemically representative highlands soils have mg ratios of 0.66 (Apollo 16), 0.69 (Luna 20) and 0.73 (ALHA81005). These soils are mixtures of unrelated pristine nonmare rocks, of which there are at least three groups: Mg-rich rocks, ferroan anorthosites, and KREEP. Other than Mg-rich rocks, virtually all pristine rocks have mg 0.65. Thus, assuming the mixing process that sampled Mg-rich materials was random, the average mg of Mg-rich parent magmas was probably at least 0.70. More direct evidence can be derived from the Mg-rich rocks themselves. Nine of them have bulk-rock mg 0.87. Two (15445 A and 67435 PST) contain Fo(92) olivine. Production of melts that crystallized Fo(92) olivine implies that the mg ratios of source regions in lunar mantle were commensurably high. A quantification of this constraint is developed assuming that the parent melts formed by equilibrium (batch) partial melting. Implications of the model are discussed.

We have exploited the pseudomorphic growth of the magnetically soft Fe3Pt phase on top of L10-FePt to obtain fully epitaxial soft/hard nanocomposites on both MgO(100) and SrTiO3(100). The magnetic properties of this new nanocomposite system, driven by the soft/hard exchange-coupling, can be tailored by varying soft phase thickness, soft phase magnetic anisotropy and substrate. Coercivity is strongly reduced by the addition of the soft phase, a reduction which is definitely affected by the nominal composition of the soft phase and by the substrate choice; similarly is the magnetic phase diagram of the composite system. Coercive field decreases down to 21% of the hard layer value for Fe3Pt(5 nm)/FePt(3.55 nm) nanocomposites on SrTiO3; this maximum coercivity reduction was obtained with a nominal atomic content of Fe in the soft phase of 80%.

Moessbauer spectroscopy detected the magnetic ordering of Fe atoms in YBa2(Cu/0.95/Fe/0.05/)3O(y) in both the superconducting and the nonsuperconducting states. It is shown that, in the superconducting sample, the superconductivity coexists with magnetic ordering of the Fe atoms in Cu1 nodes. In the nonsuperconducting sample, the Fe atoms in the Cu1 nodes have a magnetic-ordering point (20 K) which is reduced by 10 K upon transition to the superconducting state. 15 refs.

MgB2 is an s-wave, phonon coupled, multiband superconductor that exhibits novel tunneling spectra including a subtle dip feature due to quasiparticle transfer between bands. Since this feature mimics the above-gap spectral dip feature observed in Fe-based superconductors, typically attributed to a strong coupling boson, it is worthwhile to consider whether quasiparticle transfer is relevant. We first show that the dip in MgB2 appears in the π-band, DOS (Δ = 2.4 meV) and is due to quasiparticle transfer to the σ-band with Δ = 7.2 meV. Reviewing the spectral dip in Fe-based superconductors, including new data on FeSe crystals, there are inconsistencies with quasiparticle transfer as the origin. The conclusion is that the spectral dip is more likely due to a boson, the resonance spin excitation, as found in cuprate superconductors.

We study thin films and magnetic tunnel junction nanopillars based on Ta/Co{sub 20}Fe{sub 60}B{sub 20}/MgO multilayers by electrical transport and magnetometry measurements. These measurements suggest that an ultrathin magnetic oxide layer forms at the Co{sub 20}Fe{sub 60}B{sub 20}/MgO interface. At approximately 160 K, the oxide undergoes a phase transition from an insulating antiferromagnet at low temperatures to a conductive weak ferromagnet at high temperatures. This interfacial magnetic oxide is expected to have significant impact on the magnetic properties of CoFeB-based multilayers used in spin torque memories.

(Mg66.2Zn28.8Ca5)100- x Cu x (at%, x = 0, 1, 3, and 5) bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) of 2 mm in diameter were prepared by the conventional copper mold injection casting method. Besides, the influence of Cu content on the microstructure, thermal stability, mechanical properties, and corrosion behavior of Mg-Zn-Ca BMGs was investigated. It is found that the addition of Cu decreases the glass-forming ability of Mg-Zn-Ca BMGs. Crystalline phases are precipitated at a higher Cu content, larger than 3at%. The compressive fracture strength of Mg-Zn-Ca BMGs is enhanced by the addition of Cu. With the formation of in-situ composites, the compressive strength of the Mg-Zn-Ca alloy with 3at% Cu reaches 979 MPa, which is the highest strength among the Mg-Zn-Ca alloys. Furthermore, the addition of Cu also results in the increase of corrosion potential and the decrease of corrosion current density in Mg-Zn-Ca BMGs, thereby delaying their biodegradability.

The combined evidence from terrestrial anorthosites and experimental laboratory studies strongly implies that lunar anorthosites have been subjected to high-grade metamorphic events that have erased the igneous signatures of FeO and MgO in their plagioclases. Arguments to the contrary have, to this point, been more hopeful than rigorous.

We have designed a new synthesis method for the ternary metal hydride Mg{sub 2}FeH{sub 6} based on the direct reaction of simple hydrides under high-pressure conditions. Well-crystallized samples were prepared in a piston-cylinder hydrostatic press at 2 GPa and temperatures around 750 C from mixtures of MgH{sub 2} and Fe enclosed in gold or platinum capsules. Seven different samples have been prepared under different conditions. X-ray powder diffraction analysis was used to identify and assess the purity of the samples, through Rietveld analyses of the crystal structure (K{sub 2}PtCl{sub 6}-type). Mg{sub 2}FeH{sub 6} shows a cubic symmetry with space group Fm-3m. SEM images show an average particle size of 1-2 {mu}m for Mg{sub 2}FeH{sub 6}; the microcrystals present well-grown faces and display a high homogeneity of shapes and sizes. Thermogravimetric analysis has been carried out to determine not only the hydrogen desorption temperature but also the hydrogen contents. (author)

Magnetic anisotropy plays an important role in the design of spintronic devices. Perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) is preferred for magnetic tunnel junctions because the resulting energy barrier between magnetization states can be very high and this allows enhanced device scalability suitable for magnetic random access memory applications. Interface induced anisotropy is often used to control magnetic easy axes. For example, the Fe/MgO(001) system has been predicted to exhibit PMA in the ultrathin Fe limit. We have used in-situ magneto optic Kerr effect and ex-situ SQUID to study the changes in anisotropy constants between bare Fe/MgO(001) films and those capped with MgO, Pt, and Ta. In some cases in-plane anisotropy terms reverse sign after capping. We also observe transitions from superparamagnetic to ferromagnetic behavior induced by capping layers. Perpendicular anisotropy is observed for Pt/Fe/MgO(001) films after annealing to 300°C. These effects are characterized and incorporated into a magnetic simulation that accurately reproduces the behavior of the films. This work was supported in part by the Semiconductor Research Corporation programs (1) MSR-Intel, and (2) C-SPIN.

Magnesium ferrite is a very important magnetic material due to its interesting magnetic and electrical properties and its chemical and thermal stability. Here we report on the magnetic and transport properties of epitaxial MgFe2O4 thin films grown on MgO (001) by molecular beam epitaxy. The structural properties and chemical composition of the MgFe2O4 films were characterized by X-Ray diffraction and X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively. The nonsaturation of the magnetization in high magnetic fields observed for M (H) measurements and the linear negative magnetoresistance (MR) curves indicate the presence of anti-phase boundaries (APBs) in MgFe2O4. The presence of APBs was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, post annealing decreases the resistance and enhances the MR of the film, suggesting migration of the APBs. Our results may be valuable for the application of MgFe2O4 in spintronics.

Complex transition metal hydrides have potential technological application as hydrogen storage materials, smart windows and sensors. Recent exploration of these materials has revealed that the incorporation of anionic hydrogen into these systems expands the potential number of viable complexes, while varying the countercation allows for optimisation of their thermodynamic stability. In this study, the optimised synthesis of Na2Mg2TH8 (T = Fe, Ru) has been achieved and their thermal decomposition properties studied by ex situ Powder X-ray Diffraction, Gas Chromatography and Pressure-Composition Isotherm measurements. The temperature and pathway of decomposition of these isostructural compounds differs considerably, with Na2Mg2FeH8 proceeding via NaMgH3 in a three-step process, while Na2Mg2RuH8 decomposes via Mg2RuH4 in a two-step process. The first desorption maxima of Na2Mg2FeH8 occurs at ca. 400 °C, while Na2Mg2RuH8 has its first maxima at 420 °C. The enthalpy and entropy of desorption for Na2Mg2TH8 (T = Fe, Ru) has been established by PCI measurements, with the ΔHdes for Na2Mg2FeH8 being 94.5 kJ mol(-1) H2 and 125 kJ mol(-1) H2 for Na2Mg2RuH8.

The relaxation of Fe/MgO/Fe tunnel junctions grown epitaxially on (001) MgO substrates has been measured by in-situ grazing incidence in-plane X-ray diffraction during the thermal annealing cycle. We find that the Fe layers are fully relaxed and that there are no irreversible changes during annealing. The MgO tunnel barrier is initially strained towards the Fe but on annealing, relaxes and expands towards the bulk MgO value. The strain dispersion is reduced in the MgO by about 40% above 480 K post-annealing. There is no significant change in the "twist" mosaic. Our results indicate that the final annealing stage of device fabrication, crucial to attainment of high TMR, induces substantial strain relaxation at the MgO barrier/lower Fe electrode interface.

Density-functional electronic structure calculations are used to compute the equilibrium constants for 26Mg/ 24Mg and 44Ca/ 40Ca isotope exchange between carbonate minerals and uncomplexed divalent aquo ions. The most reliable calculations at the B3LYP/6-311++G(2d,2p) level predict equilibrium constants K, reported as 10 3ln ( K) at 25 °C, of -5.3, -1.1, and +1.2 for 26Mg/ 24Mg exchange between calcite (CaCO 3), magnesite (MgCO 3), and dolomite (Ca 0.5Mg 0.5CO 3), respectively, and Mg 2+(aq), with positive values indicating enrichment of the heavy isotope in the mineral phase. For 44Ca/ 40Ca exchange between calcite and Ca 2+(aq) at 25 °C, the calculations predict values of +1.5 for Ca 2+(aq) in 6-fold coordination and +4.1 for Ca 2+(aq) in 7-fold coordination. We find that the reduced partition function ratios can be reliably computed from systems as small as M(CO)610- and M(HO)62+ embedded in a set of fixed atoms representing the second-shell (and greater) coordination environment. We find that the aqueous cluster representing the aquo ion is much more sensitive to improvements in the basis set than the calculations on the mineral systems, and that fractionation factors should be computed using the best possible basis set for the aquo complex, even if the reduced partition function ratio calculated with the same basis set is not available for the mineral system. The new calculations show that the previous discrepancies between theory and experiment for Fe 3+-hematite and Fe 2+-siderite fractionations arise from an insufficiently accurate reduced partition function ratio for the Fe 3+(aq) and Fe 2+(aq) species.

Density functional electronic structure calculations are used to compute the equilibrium constant (the isotope fractionation factor) for 26Mg/24Mg and 44Ca/40Ca isotope exchange between carbonate minerals and uncomplexed divalent aquo ions. The most reliable calculations at the B3LYP/6-311++G(2d,2p) level predict equilibrium constants K, reported as 103ln(K) at 25 °C, of -5.3, -1.1, and +1.1 for 26Mg/24Mg exchange between calcite (CaCO3), magnesite (MgCO3), and dolomite (Ca0.5Mg0.5CO3), respectively, and Mg2+(aq), with positive values indicating enrichment in the mineral phase. For 44Ca/40Ca exchange between calcite and Ca2+(aq), the calculations predict values of +1.5 for Ca2+(aq) in six-fold coordination and +4.1 for Ca2+(aq) in seven-fold coordination. We find that the reduced partition function ratios can be reliably computed from systems as small as M(CO3)610- and M2+(H2O)6 embedded in a set of fixed atoms representing the 2nd shell (and greater) coordination environment. We find that the aqueous cluster representing the aquo ion is much more sensitive to improvements in the basis set than the calculations on the mineral systems, and that fractionation factors should be computed using 2 the best possible basis set for the aquo complex, even if the reduced partition function ratio calculated with the same basis set is not available for the mineral system. The new calculations show that the previous discrepancies between theory and experiment for Fe3+-hematite and Fe2+-siderite fractionations arise from an insufficiently accurate reduced partition function ratio for the Fe3+(aq) and Fe2+(aq) species.

CuO nanoarrays (CNAs) and Fe-incorporated CuO nanoarrays (FCNAs) were fabricated by hydrothermal method. Addition of Fe salt to the reaction mixture allowed the introduction of iron oxide onto the CNAs surface, which was characterized by XPS and HRTEM. Introducing Fe ion into reaction precursor significantly affected not only the morphologies of as-prepared products but also their electrochemical performance as anode for lithium ion full battery. The FCNAs electrodes showed higher specific capacity and better capacity retention at different current densities than that of CNAs. - Highlights: • Fe-incorporated CuO nanoarrays were fabricated by hydrothermal method. • Fe salt in reaction mixture leads to iron oxides forming on the surface of CuO. • Fe-incorporating improves the lithium ion battery performance of CuO anodes.

A sub-micron-sized polyethylenimine(PEI)-modified polystyrene/Fe3O4/chitosan magnetic composite (PS/Fe3O4/CS-PEI) was developed as a novel adsorbent for the removal of Cu(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The PS/Fe3O4/CS-PEI microspheres with a diameter of ∼300 nm can be highly monodisperse and conveniently separated from suspensions by a magnet due to their excellent magnetism. When the PS/Fe3O4/CS-PEI microspheres were used as an absorbent for the absorption of Cu(II) ions, the adsorption isotherms and adsorption kinetics well fitted the Langmuir model and the pseudo-second-order model, respectively. The maximum adsorption capacity was about 204.6 mg g-1, which was higher than those of other chitosan adsorbents reported recently. The adsorption was considerably fast, reaching the equilibrium within 15 min. In addition, the adsorbed Cu(II) ions could be effectively desorbed using 0.1 mol L-1 NaOH solution, and the regeneration study proved that the composite microspheres could be repeatedly utilized without significant capacity loss after six cycles. All the results demonstrated that the synthesized sub-micron-sized magnetic PS/Fe3O4/CS-PEI composites can be used as an ideal adsorbent of Cu(II) ions for environmental cleanup applications.

We have observed several unexpected phenomena when a trace amount of Fe atoms is deposited onto the CoFeB/MgO interface in Ta/CoFeB/MgO/Ta multilayers. With the nominal thickness of the introduced Fe atoms (t{sub Fe}) varying from 0 to 0.1 Å, the effective magnetic anisotropy energy (K{sub eff}) of annealed multilayers is remarkably enhanced from 1.28 × 10{sup 6 }erg/cm{sup 3} to 2.14 × 10{sup 6 }erg/cm{sup 3}. As t{sub Fe} further increasing, the K{sub eff} decreases and even becomes negative when t{sub Fe} > 1 Å, indicating the change from perpendicular magnetic anisotropy to in-plane magnetic anisotropy. The analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectrometer reveals that the Fe atoms at annealed CoFeB/MgO interface show different electronic structures as t{sub Fe} increasing, which combine with O atoms to form FeO{sub x} (x Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}, and Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4}, respectively, leading to modulation of Fe 3d-O 2p orbital hybridization and thus the K{sub eff}. On the other hand, we find that the introduction of Fe atoms also helps to reduce the multilayers' magnetic damping.

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Ta/MgO{sub x}/Ni{sub 81}Fe{sub 19}/MgO{sub x}/Ta films were prepared by magnetron sputtering. The anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) increases dramatically after annealing. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The chemical states of Ta and MgO{sub x} at the interface of the NiFe/MgO{sub x}/Ta films, which were prepared at the different technological conditions, were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The AMR of Ta/MgO{sub x}/Ni{sub 81}Fe{sub 19}/MgO{sub x}/Ta films is related to the chemical states of MgO{sub x}. These states were produced under different technical conditions and influence the film properties. - Abstract: Ta/MgO{sub x}/Ni{sub 81}Fe{sub 19}/MgO{sub x}/Ta films were prepared by magnetron sputtering. The anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) increases dramatically after annealing. The chemical states of Ta and MgO{sub x} at the interface of the NiFe/MgO{sub x}/Ta films, which were prepared at the different technological conditions, were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results show that the AMR of the films is related to the chemical states of MgO{sub x}. The chemical states of Mg are different when MgO{sub x} is prepared at different technological conditions. Therefore, increasing the AMR is beneficial when more Mg{sup 2+} ions are present in the MgO{sub x} films.

East Pacific Rise (EPR) hosts the largest hydrothermal field in the world. The concentrations of dissolved key trace metals (Fe, Zn, Cu and Cd) were determined in the seawater samples collected from EPR to Tahiti in the South Pacific along 10-15 ºS during U. S. GEOTRACES 2013 by means of Mg(OH)2 co-precipitation isotope dilution method using ICP-MS. Dissolved Mn was determined in these samples using a new method combining Mg(OH)2 co-precipitation with calibration with external standards of 57Fe, 52Cr and 59Co. The results show substantial mid-depth maxima of Fe and Mn extended from EPR. These hydrothermally-enriched Fe and Mn show long-distance westward transportation to the central South Pacific. The mid-depth enrichment of Zn was also observed at stations close to EPR. In contrast, Cu and Cd show depletions around the hydrothermal vent near EPR. Overall the results suggest that hydrothermal activity is a source for Fe, Mn and Zn and a sink for Cu and Cd.

Cu/TiO2, Fe/TiO2 and heteropoly acid promoted Cu/TiO2, Fe/TiO2 catalysts were prepared and characterized by N2 physisorption, XRPD, NH3-TPD, H2-TPR and EPR. The catalysts exhibited only crystalline TiO2 phases with the active metals and promoters in highly dispersed state. The acidic properties...... activity and acidity was lower for promoted catalysts than for unpromoted catalysts. In the heteropoly acid promoted catalysts the SCR active Cu and Fe metals were protected from potassium poisons by bonding of the potassium to the Brønsted acid centres. Thus heteropoly acid promoted catalysts might...... were studied and compared with the catalytic activity for the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NO with ammonia. The SCR activities and acidity values of heteropoly acid promoted catalysts were found to be much higher than unpromoted catalysts. The influence of potassium poisons on the SCR...

MgAl-LDH/CoFe2O4 and MgAl-CLDH/CoFe2O4 nanofibres were prepared by urea-hydrolysed hydrothermal reaction and the subsequent calcinations. The morphology and structure of the products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscope and Fourier transformed infrared. The adsorption performance of MgAl-LDH/CoFe2O4 and MgAl-CLDH/CoFe2O4 nanofibres for the removal of an anionic dye (Congo Red, CR) from aqueous solution was investigated. The results showed that MgAl-LDH/CoFe2O4 and MgAl-CLDH/CoFe2O4 nanofibres are particularly efficient in removing CR. The adsorption follows a pseudo-second-order kinetic model and best fits the Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum adsorption capacities of MgAl-LDH/CoFe2O4 and MgAl-CLDH/CoFe2O4 nanofibres for CR were found to be 213.2 and 49.8 mg g−1, respectively. The both adsorption processes were found to be spontaneous and exothermic in nature.

A method for extraction and preconcentration of Cu and Fe in red and white wines using dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) and determination by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (F AAS) was developed. Extraction was performed using sodium diethyldithiocarbamate as chelating agent and a mixture of 40 μL of 1,2-dichlorobenzene (extraction solvent) and 900 μL of methanol (dispersive solvent). Some parameters that influencing the extraction efficiency such as pH (2 to 5), concentration of chelating agent (0 to 2%), effect of salt addition (0 to 10%), number of washing steps (1 to 4) and centrifugation time (0 to 15 min) were studied. Accuracy was evaluated after microwave-assisted digestion in closed vessels and analytes were determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Agreement with the proposed method ranged from 91 to 110 and from 89 to 113% for Cu and Fe, respectively. Calibration of F AAS instrument was performed using analyte addition method and limits of detection were 6.3 and 2.4 μg L{sup −1} for Cu and Fe, respectively. The proposed method was applied for the determination of Cu and Fe in five samples of red wine and three samples of white wine, with concentration ranging from 21 to 178 μg L{sup −1} and from 1.38 to 3.74 mg L{sup −1}, respectively. - Highlights: • Determination of Cu and Fe in wine using DLLME and F AAS • High preconcentration factors and low LODs were achieved. • Alternative method for the determination of Cu and Fe in wine for routine analysis.

Full Text Available The work presents preparation methods, structure characterization and mechanical properties analysis of Mg-based bulk metallic glasses in as-cast state and after crystallization process. The studies were performed on Mg60Cu30Y10 and Mg37Cu36Ca27 glassy alloys in the form of plates and rods. The X-ray diffraction investigations revealed that the tested samples with different thicknesses and shapes were amorphous. The characteristics of the fractured surfaces showed mixed fractures with the “river” and “mirror” patterns, which are characteristic for the glassy materials and some “smooth” areas. The samples of Mg37Cu36Ca27 alloy presented a two-stage crystallization process, but addition of Y caused a single stage crystallization behavior. Qualitative phase analysis from the X-ray data of examined alloys annealed at 473 K enabled the identification of Mg, Mg2Cu, Cu2Mg and CaCu crystalline phases. The changes of compressive strength as a function of annealing temperature for studied rods were stated. The best mechanical properties including microhardness and compressive strength were obtained for the alloy with the addition of Y in as-cast state.

A possible mechanism for the resistive switching observed experimentally in Fe/MgO/V/Fe junctions is presented. Ab initio total energy calculations within the local density approximation and pseudopotential theory shows that by moving the oxygen ions across the MgO/V interface one obtains a metastable state. It is argued that this state can be reached by applying an electric field across the interface. In addition, the ground state and the metastable state show different electric conductances. The latter results are discussed in terms of the changes of the density of states at the Fermi level and the charge transfer at the interface due to the oxygen ion motion. - Highlights: • Local minima are found for oxygen near the interface with at least one oxygen moved. • Relaxation of a small unit cell preserves this result and lowers energy barrier. • V on the top of Mg exhibits the minimum and a reasonable energy barrier. • Sense of switching: experimental evidence of the configuration (V on O or V on Mg). • Sense of switching can be understood in terms of charge oscillations induced by the O.

Mg-Fe alloy based hydrogen gas sensors were produced by a RF sputtering process. By exposure to a hydrogen containing gas mixture the Mg-metal alloy switches from the metal phase into a hydride phase, thereby the optical reflection shows a change. A Pd top layer acts as hydrogen catalyst. The degradation of the hydrogenation speed (sensor reaction) and the switching durability are well known problems of such Mg-metal based switching mirrors. Furthermore, there is a delay of sensor reaction after some weeks of storage (in air). In order to solve these problems, we added a Ti buffer layer between MgFe and Pd layer. The buffer layer inserted sensor system featured an improvement of sensor reaction and switching durability. A polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) covering coat was added and reduced the sensor degeneration after the storage. Furthermore, there was an additional improvement of switching durability. Samples of PTFE/Pd/Ti/MgFe achieved over 1000 switching cycles (with 4 % hydrogen in air) without a significant performance reduction.

The effect of Al$^{3+}$ substitution on electromagnetic properties has been studied for nanocrystalline Mg$_{0.8}$Cu$_{0.2}Mn$_{0.05}$Al$_x$Fe$_{1.95−x}$O$_4$ ferrites, wherein $x$ varies from 0 to 0.4 in steps of 0.1. These ferrites were synthesizedby using microwave hydrothermal method and then characterized using X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared and transmission electron microscopy. The synthesized powders were densified using microwavesintering method at 950◦C/50 min. Structural and surface morphology of sintered samples were characterized using XRD and atomic force microscopy, respectively. The complex permittivity and permeability properties were measuredover a frequency range 100 Hz–1.8 GHz. The temperature variation of magnetic properties were measured in the temperature range of 300–650 K. The electrical and magnetization studies inferred that the values of d.c. resistivity increases by 27%, whereas saturation magnetization decreases linearly from 38.6 to 23.0 emu g$^{−1}$ and Curie temperature was found to be decreased from 628 to 513 K with an increase of Al$^{3+}$ ions. The low dielectric, magnetic losses, moderate saturation magnetization and high-temperature stability properties exhibited by Al$^{3+}$ substituted MgCuMn ferrites make them find applications in microwave devices, such as circulators and isolators etc. The applicability of present samples formicrowave devices has been tested by the measurement of ferromagnetic resonance linewidth at K$_a$ band.

Magnesium with oxides or transition elements prepared by mechanical grinding under H2 (reactive mechanical grinding) showed relatively high hydriding and dehydriding rates when the content of additives was about 20 wt%. Ni, Fe2O3, and Fe were chosen as the oxides or transition elements to be added. Ti was also selected since it was considered to increase the hydriding and dehydriding rates by forming Ti hydride. Samples Mg-14Ni-3Fe2O3-3Ti (Sample A) and Mg-14Ni-2Fe2O3-2Ti-2Fe (Sample B) were prepared by reactive mechanical grinding, and their hydrogen storage properties were compared. The activated Sample A had a little smaller hydriding rate than the activated Sample B, but a higher dehydriding rate than the activated Sample B. Sample A exhibits quite a larger dehydriding rate and quantity of hydrogen desorbed for 60 min than any other Mg-xNi-yFe2O3-zM (M=transition metals) samples. An addition of a relatively larger amount of Ti is considered to lead to quite a high hydriding rate and a high dehydriding rate of Sample A.

Age-hardening at 150 C has been studied in an Al-Cu-Mg alloy microalloyed with 0.1 at.% Ag and the commercial alloy 2024. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) was combined with measurements of microhardness changes during ageing at 150 C. Both alloys are known to harden in two stages separated by an extended plateau. Combined PALS and hardness data shows that the effect of Ag is to enhance vacancy trapping at Mg atoms in competition with the formation of mobile vacancy-Cu pairs. Thus, the addition of Ag gives a reduction of Cu atoms mobility, leading to slower initial hardening in comparison with a silver-free alloy with similar Cu:Mg ratio. In both alloys, the second stage of hardening begins before increases occur in positron lifetimes that indicate the formation of misfit interfaces (i.e. semi-coherent precipitates). This observation supports the view that this second stage of hardening in alloys based on the Al-Cu-Mg system is associated mainly with the growth and transformation of coherent GP(Cu,Mg) zones. The PALS data are consistent with the hypothesis that the X' phase, previously observed to be present in Al-Cu-Mg-Ag at peak ageing, develops misfit interfaces with the matrix. (orig.)

Delafossite CuCr1-xFexO2 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) semiconductors were synthesized using a self-combustion urea nitrate process. The effects of Fe concentration on its microstructural, optical, magnetic, and electrical properties were investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis results revealed the delafossite structure in all the samples. The lattice spacing of CuCr1-xFexO2 slightly increased with increasing substitution of Fe at the Cr sites. The optical properties measured at room temperature using UV-visible spectroscopy showed a weak absorbability in the visible light and near IR regions. The corresponding direct optical band gap was about 3.61 eV, exhibiting transparency in the visible region. The magnetic hysteresis loop measurements showed that the Fe-doped CuCrO2 samples exhibited ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature. This indicated that the substitution of Fe3+ for Cr3+ produced a mixed effect on the magnetic properties of CuCrO2 delafossite oxide. The temperature dependent resistivity measurements clearly revealed the presence of superconductivity in the CuCr1-xFexO2 with a superconducting transition up to 118 K.

In this PhD Thesis, the influence of the surface topography, morphology and structure on magnetic properties of ion beam sputtered iron layers on GaAs is examined. To analyze the structure of the produced iron films, low energy electron diffraction and scanning tunneling microscopy is employed. The utilized methods to investigate the magnetic properties are Kerr- and SQUID-magnetometry and ferromagnetic resonance. It is demonstrated that on untreated as well as on presputtered and heated GaAs substrates the sputtered iron films grow epitaxially. The least surface roughness of 1 A exhibit iron films grown on untreated GaAs, while iron films on heated GaAs have the highest roughness of 30 A. The largest crystal anisotropy constant is found for the presputtered GaAs/Fe-System. For this preparation method, two monolayers of iron are determined to be magnetically dead layers. At a film thickness of 100 A, 83% of the value for saturation magnetization of bulk iron are achieved. The small observed FMR-linewidths confirm the good bulk properties of the ion beam sputtered iron. Furthermore, an antiferromagnetic interlayer exchange coupling in sputtered Fe/Cr/Fe-films was achieved. For a thickness of 12 to 17 A of the chrome interlayer, a coupling strength up to 0.2 mJ/m{sup 2} is found. To account for the small coupling strength, a strong intermixing at the interface is assumed. Finally, epitaxial Fe/MgO/Fe/FeMn multilayers are deposited on GaAs. After the structuring, it is possible to detect tunneling processes in the tunneling contacts with current-voltage measurements. The tunnel magneto resistance values of 2% are small, which can be explained by the absence of sharp, well-defined interfaces between the Fe/FeMn and the Fe/MgO interfaces. These results demonstrate, that analog to MBE the ion beam sputtering method realizes good magnetic bulk properties. However, interface sensitive phenomena are weakened because of a strong intermixing at the interfaces. (orig.)

Chemical effects on the K shell fluorescence yields of Fe, Mn, Co, Cr and Cu compounds were investigated. Samples were excited using 59.5 keV energy photons from a 241Am radioisotope source. K X-rays emitted by samples were counted by a Si(Li) detector with a resolution 160 eV at 5.9 keV. Chemical effects on the K shell fluorescence yields (K) for Fe, Mn, Co, Cr and Cu compounds were observed. The values are compared with theoretical, semiempirical fit and experimental ones for the pure elements.

Full Text Available Superoxide dismutase (SOD, EC 1.15.1.1 is an important metal-containing antioxidant enzyme that provides the first line of defense against toxic superoxide radicals by catalyzing their dismutation to oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. SOD is classified into four metalloprotein isoforms, namely, Cu/Zn SOD, Mn SOD, Ni SOD and Fe SOD. The structural models of soybean SOD isoforms have not yet been solved. In this study, we describe structural models for soybean Cu/Zn SOD, Mn SOD and Fe SOD and provide insights into the molecular function of this metal-binding enzyme in improving tolerance to oxidative stress in plants.

The microstructure, hardness and wear performance of CrCuFeTiNi high entropy alloy were evaluated. The alloy was produced by mixing constituent elements, consolidated and melted using vacuum arc furnace. The X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed that the alloy is composed of FCC and BCC simple phases. The microstructure contains three regions that were rich in Cu, Cr and Fe which resulted from segregation of constituent elements. The Vickers micro hardness of the alloy was determined as HV0.5 ...

Layered double hydroxides(LDHs)with hydrotalcite-type structure containing Fe3+,Al3+ and Mg2+ were prepared by means of a coprecipitation method.The products were characterized by element analysis, X-ray powder diffraction and transmission electron microscopy.It was found that even if the molar ratio of n(Fe+Al)/n(Fe+Al+Mg)>0.33,yet a pure hydrotalcite-like compound(HTlc)phase was gained when n(Fe)/n(Al+Mg+Fe)≤0.30 and n(Al+Mg+Fe)≤0.30;the Al(OH)3 phase appeared in the products when n(Al)/n(Al+Mg+Fe)>0.30;and an amorphous phase emerged when n(Fe)/n(Al+Mg+Fe)>0.33.These results show that there is no concentration superposition effect between Fe3+ and Al3+ on the crystalline state of the produced samples.In our previous work,the concentration superposition effect between Zn2+ and Mg2+ in the synthesis of Zn-Mg-Al-LDHs was found.For the prepared Fe-Al-Mg-LDHs samples,the value of lattice parameter a is between 0.30-0.32nm;and the value of lattice parameter c is between 2.30-2.47nm,the bassl spacing is in the range of 0.76-0.83nm.When the ratio of n(Fe)/n(Al)is a constant,the values of a and c increase with the increase of the Mg2+ content of the produced samples.The mean particle size and the mean crystal grain were determined by virtue of a particle-size instrument,XRD-Scherrer formulsa and TEM method,respectively.

A Zr-Ti-Cu-Fe quaternary eutectic alloy was employed as a new Be-free brazing filler metal for Zircaloy-4 to supersede physically vapor-deposited Be coatings used conventionally with several disadvantages. The quaternary eutectic composition of Zr58Ti16Cu10Fe16 (at.%) showing a low melting temperature range from 832 °C to 853 °C was designed by a partial substitution of Zr with Ti based on a Zr-Cu-Fe ternary eutectic system. By applying an alloy ribbon with the determined composition, a highly reliable joint was obtained with a homogeneous formation of predominantly grown α-Zr phases owing to a complete isothermal solidification, exhibiting strength higher than that of Zircaloy-4. The homogenization of the joint was rate-controlled by the diffusion of the filler elements (Ti, Cu, and Fe) into the Zircaloy-4 base metal, and the detrimental segregation of the Zr2Fe phase in the central zone was completely eliminated by an isothermal holding at a brazing temperature of 920 °C for 10 min.

Chemically beneficiated high silica/alumina iron ore rejects (27–76% Fe2O3) were used to synthesize iron oxides of purity 96–98% with SiO2/Al2O3 ratio reduced to 0.03. The major impurities on chemical beneficiations were Al, Si, and Mn in the range 2–3%. A 99.73% purity Fe2O3 was also prepared by solvent extraction method using methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) from the acid extracts of the ore rejects. The magnesium ferrite, MgFe2O4, prepared from these synthetic iron oxides showed high resistivity of ∼ 108 ohm cm. All ferrites showed saturation magnetization, 4s, in the narrow range of 900–1200 Gauss and the Curie temperature, c, of all these fell within a small limit of 670 ± 30 K. All ferrites had low dielectric constants ('), 12–15, and low dielectric loss, tan , which decreased with the increase in frequency indicating a normal dielectric dispersion found in ferrites. The presence of insignificant amount of polarizable Fe2+ ions can be attributed to their high resistances and low dielectric constants. Impurities inherent in the samples had no marked influence on the electrical properties of the ferrites prepared from the iron ore rejects, suggesting the possibility of formation of ferrite of constant composition, MgFe2O4, of low magnetic and dielectric losses at lower temperatures of 1000°C by ceramic technique.

Highlights: • The average globule size of α-Al decreased when Mg amount is increased. • T6 heat treatment has increased the strength of the thixoformed alloys. • The elongation after T6 heat treatment is even significantly improved. • Thixoformed alloy with high Mg content shows a brittle type fracture. • Thixoformed alloy in T6 condition shows a ductile type fracture. - Abstract: In this study, the effects of different amounts of magnesium (Mg) on the microstructures and tensile properties of thixoformed Al–5%Si–Cu alloys were investigated. Three different alloys containing various amounts of Mg (0.5, 0.8 and 1.2 wt%) were prepared through the cooling slope casting technique, before they were thixoformed using a compression press. Several of the thixoformed samples were then treated with a T6 heat treatment, that is, solution treatment at 525 °C for 8 h, quenching in warm water at 60 °C, followed by aging at 155 °C for 4 h. All of the samples were then characterised by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis as well as by tensile tests. The results revealed that magnesium was able to refine the size of α-Al globules and the eutectic silicon in the samples. It was also observed that a compact π-Al{sub 9}FeMg{sub 3}Si{sub 5} phase was formed when the magnesium content was 0.8 wt% and 1.2 wt%. The mechanical properties of the thixoformed alloys improved significantly after the T6 heat treatment. The highest attainment was recorded by the latter alloy (i.e. with 1.2 wt%Mg) with its ultimate tensile strength (UTS) as high as 306 MPa, yield strength (YS), 264 MPa, and elongation to fracture of 1.8%. The fracture of thixoformed alloy with a low Mg content (0.5 wt%) showed a combination of dimple and cleavage fracture, whereas in the alloy that contained the highest Mg content (1.2 wt%), cleavage fracture was observed.

Full Text Available The influence of surface properties on the selectivity of the synthesized catalysts was studied, considering that their selectivity towards particular hydrocarbons is crucial for their overall activity in the chosen Fischer- -Tropsch reaction. Magnesium- and iron-containing layered double hydroxides (LDH, with the general formula: [Mg1-xFex(OH2](CO3x/2?mH2O, x = = n(Fe/(n(Mg+n(Fe, synthesized with different Mg/Fe ratio and their thermally derived mixed oxides were investigated. Magnesium was chosen because of its basic properties, whereas iron was selected due to its well-known high Fischer-Tropsch activity, redox properties and the ability to form specific active sites in the layered LDH structure required for catalytic application. The thermally less stable multiphase system (synthesized outside the optimal single LDH phase range with additional Fe-phase, having a lower content of surface acid and base active sites, a lower surface area and smaller fraction of smaller mesopores, showed higher selectivity in the Fischer-Tropsch reaction. The results of this study imply that the metastability of derived multiphase oxides structure has a greater influence on the formation of specific catalyst surface sites than other investigated surface properties.

The impact of a non-magnetic Ta spacer layer on the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) of composite magnetic structures constituted by ultra-thin Co/Pd multilayers (MLs) and MgO/CoFeB was studied. Composite structures lacking a Ta layer present in-plane magnetic anisotropy. The strong perpendicular anisotropy observed in sole Co/Pd MLs is not sufficient to pull the magnetic moment out of the film plane, not even after annealing at 300 or 350 °C. PMA with squareness values close to unity and annealing stability up to 350 °C is observed after the insertion of an ultra-thin Ta layer. Our study demonstrates that Ta layer is essential for obtaining perpendicular magnetic axis in MgO/CoFeB/Ta/[Co/Pd]6. The exchange coupling between the MgO/CoFeB bilayer and the Co/Pd MLs is ferromagnetic with sharp switching characteristics. Perpendicular composite structures with sharp magnetization reversal and annealing stability are relevant in perpendicular CoFeB-based magnetic tunnel junctions for the development of gigabit-scale nonvolatile memory.

Previous studies have shown that using biodegradable magnesium alloys such as Mg-Zn and Mg-Zn-Al possess the appropriate mechanical properties and biocompatibility to serve in a multitude of biological applications ranging from endovascular to orthopedic and fixation devices. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of novel as-cast magnesium alloys Mg-1Zn-1Cu wt.% and Mg-1Zn-1Se wt.% as potential implantable biomedical materials, and compare their biologically effective properties to a binary Mg-Zn alloy. The cytotoxicity of these experimental alloys was evaluated using a tetrazolium based- MTS (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium) assay and a lactate dehydrogenase membrane integrity assay (LDH). The MTS assay was performed on extract solutions obtained from a 30-day period of alloy immersion and agitation in simulated body fluid to evaluate the major degradation products eluted from the alloy materials. Human foreskin fibroblast cell growth on the experimental magnesium alloys was evaluated for a 72 hour period, and cell death was quantified by measuring lactate dehydrogenase concentrations. Both Mg-Zn-Se and Mg-Zn-Cu alloys exhibit low cytotoxicity levels which are suitable for biomaterial applications. The Mg-Zn-Cu alloy was found to completely degrade within 72 hours, resulting in lower human foreskin fibroblast cell viability. The Mg-Zn-Se alloy was shown to be less cytotoxic than both the Mg-Zn-Cu and Mg-Zn alloys. PMID:24058329

Previous studies have shown that using biodegradable magnesium alloys such as Mg-Zn and Mg-Zn-Al possess the appropriate mechanical properties and biocompatibility to serve in a multitude of biological applications ranging from endovascular to orthopedic and fixation devices. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of novel as-cast magnesium alloys Mg-1Zn-1Cu wt.% and Mg-1Zn-1Se wt.% as potential implantable biomedical materials, and compare their biologically effective properties to a binary Mg-Zn alloy. The cytotoxicity of these experimental alloys was evaluated using a tetrazolium based- MTS (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium) assay and a lactate dehydrogenase membrane integrity assay (LDH). The MTS assay was performed on extract solutions obtained from a 30-day period of alloy immersion and agitation in simulated body fluid to evaluate the major degradation products eluted from the alloy materials. Human foreskin fibroblast cell growth on the experimental magnesium alloys was evaluated for a 72 hour period, and cell death was quantified by measuring lactate dehydrogenase concentrations. Both Mg-Zn-Se and Mg-Zn-Cu alloys exhibit low cytotoxicity levels which are suitable for biomaterial applications. The Mg-Zn-Cu alloy was found to completely degrade within 72 hours, resulting in lower human foreskin fibroblast cell viability. The Mg-Zn-Se alloy was shown to be less cytotoxic than both the Mg-Zn-Cu and Mg-Zn alloys.

The crystal structure of the quaternary compounds CuFe2AlSe4 and CuFe2GaSe4, belonging to the system I–II2–III–VI4, were characterized using X-ray powder diffraction data. Both compounds crystallize in the tetragonal space group I42m (No. 121), = 2, with unit cell parameters = 5.609(1) Å, = 10.963(2) Å for CuFe2AlSe4 and = 5.6165(3) Å, = 11.075(1) Å for CuFe2GaSe4. These compounds are isostructural with CuFe2InSe4, and have a normal adamantane stannite structure.

为实现复合肥样品中多元素的同时分析,采用熔融片法制样,有效地消除了试样的粒度效应,用X射线荧光光谱法测定复合肥样品中磷、钾、钙、镁、锰、铁、铜、钠、锌和铝10个元素,对仪器工作条件进行了试验并选定最佳条件,使各元素测定所要求的灵敏度和准确度得到满足,以8个合成的样品作为校准样品,采用固定理论α影响系数进行回归及基体效应校正,方法精密度(RSD,n=8)≤1.36%,分析结果与化学法进行对照基本一致.%A method for the determination of including P, K, Ca, Mg, Mn, Fe, Cu, Na, Zn and Al in compound fertilizers by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry with fused glass disc sample preparation was reported in this paper.The granularity effect in the analysis was eliminated by the fusion method of sam pie-dissolution.The working conditions of the instrument were also studied and optimized to meet with the requirements of sensitivity and accuracy of determination.Eight composed samples were used as the calibration standards.The matrix effect was corrected with fixed theoretical alpha coefficient method.The precision of the method was RSD≤1.36％ (n =8).The results were in agreement with those by chemical methods.

Transition metal oxides (TMOs) exhibit many emergent phenomena ranging from high-temperature superconductivity and giant magnetoresistance to magnetism and ferroelectricity. In addition, when TMOs are interfaced with each other, new functionalities can arise, which are absent in individual components. Here, we report results from first-principles calculations on the magnetism at the BiFeO3/YBa2Cu3O7 interfaces. By comparing the total energy for various magnetic spin configurations inside BiFe...

An approach to engineering magnetic refrigerant materials with defined thermal transport properties is demonstrated using the example of high magnetocaloric performance La-Fe-Si alloys. A tunability of up to 300% of the thermal conductivity can be achieved in composites consisting of a La(Fe,Si){sub 13} compound and Cu prepared by electroless copper plating without compromising the magnitude of the magnetocaloric effect. (Copyright copyright 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Heterogeneous atomic magnetic chains are built by atom manipulation on a Cu2N /Cu (100) substrate. Their magnetic properties are studied and rationalized by a combined scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and density functional theory (DFT) work completed by model Hamiltonian studies. The chains are built using Fe and Mn atoms ontop of the Cu atoms along the N rows of the Cu2N surface. Here, we present results for FeMnx chains (x =1 -6 ) emphasizing the evolution of the geometrical, electronic, and magnetic properties with chain size. By fitting our results to a Heisenberg Hamiltonian we have studied the exchange-coupling matrix elements J for different chains. For the shorter chains, x ≤2 , we have included spin-orbit effects in the DFT calculations, extracting the magnetic anisotropy energy. Our results are also fitted to a simple anisotropic spin Hamiltonian and we have extracted values for the longitudinal-anisotropy D and transversal-anisotropy E constants. These parameters together with the values for J allow us to compute the magnetic excitation energies of the system and to compare them with the experimental data.

Activities of FeO in CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-MgO-FeO slags were determined at 1673 K by electrochemical measurements of the solid electrolyte cell: Mo |Mo+MoO2[ZrO2(MgO)[Fe+(CaO-SiO2-Al2O3-MgO-FeO)+Ag|Fe. The influences of slag compositions and basicity on FeO activities were analyzed. The results reveal that, for slags of fixed (%CaO)/(%SiO2) ratio, MgO and Al2O3 content, there was an increase of FeO activities with increase of FeO content. For slags with constant {(%CaO)+ (%MgO)}/(%SiO2) ratio, fixed FeO and Al,2O3 content, FeO activities decreased when MgO content increased from 5% to 10%, and increased with the increase of MgO content when it was over 10%. The FeO activities increased when (%CaO)/(%SiO2) ratio changed from 1.03 to 1.30 in the slags of constant MgO, FeO and Al2O3 content.

Full Text Available Orthorhombic lanthanum orthoferrites La0.8Sr0.2Fe1-yCuyO3-w (y = 0 and 0.10 have been studied using X-rays and neutron powder diffraction (XRPD and NPD, magnetization measurements and 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy. Rietveld refinements on XRPD and NPD data show that they adopt an orthorhombic ABO3 perovskite symmetry with La/Sr and Fe/Cu atoms randomly distributed on crystal A and B sites, respectively. The magnetic structure at room temperature is antiferromagnetic, with the Fe/Cu magnetic moments aligned along the a axis. Magnetization curves versus temperature show that the compounds exhibit an overall antiferromagnetic and a weak ferromagnetic behaviour in the range 5-298 K. 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy measurements indicate that Fe3+ and Fe5+ ions coexist in both compounds, and the relative percentage of Fe5+ is almost the same at 77 and 170 K, rejecting a charge disproportion mechanism.

Alternated stacking of dissimilar layers can produce novel superlattice materials with multiple functionalities. The majority of such work reported in literature on epitaxial superlattices has been on alternating layers with the same space group (SG) and crystal structure (CS), whereas superlattices with the same CS but different SG have not been studied as much. We have grown superlattices with two well-known oxide materials, viz. cuprite (Cu2O, CS = cubic and SG = Pn bar{3} m) and magnesium oxide (MgO, CS = cubic, SG = Fm bar{3} m). An MgO buffer layer grown near 650°C at the film-substrate interface was found to be essential to achieving reasonable long-range atomic order. Grazing-angle x-ray diffraction, x-ray reflectivity, and electron diffraction analyses as well as transmission electron microscopy were used to investigate the interface abruptness, smoothness, and general crystallinity of the individual layers. Interdiffusion between MgO and Cu2O near interfacial regions places a limit of 250°C on the growth temperature for fabrication of superlattices with reasonably sharp interfaces.

Well-dispersed uniform CoFe2O4 nanoparticles were prepared and then coated by MgO through thermal decomposition of a metal-organic salt in organic solvent. Then CoFe2O4/MgO were reduced in a H2/N2 mixture gas and subsequently oxidized in an ambient atmosphere in order to build CoFe2/CoFe2O4/MgO architectures with high magnetization, good chemical stability and dispersivity, which are useful in some practical applications. MgO can be dissolved by the HCl solution. The surfaces of CoFe2O4, CoFe2/MgO, CoFe2 and CoFe2/CoFe2O4 magnetic particles were functionalized by TiO2 to prepare the magnetically separable photocatalysts. The rattle-type particles were obtained without the assistance of template and etchant. The photocatalytic activity of these photocatalysts in degradation of methylene blue and the magnetic separability were investigated: The nanosheet-shaped TiO2 and rattle-type particles exhibited good photocatalytic performance; The highest degradation efficiency reaches 93% for the CoFe2/TiO2 sample which has the highest magnetization value of 42 emu/g, beneficial for the recovery of catalyst after degradation.

A greener method to fabricate the novel core (Fe and Cu)-shell (noble metals) metal nanocrystals using aqueous ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is described. Transition metal salts such as Cu and Fe were reduced using ascorbic acid, a benign naturally available antioxidant, and then add...

The interaction between 9-fluorenylmethyl chloroformate (FMOC-Cl) and Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions was investigated using fluorescence, UV/Vis absorption spectroscopies and theoretical calculation. The optical property of FMOC-Cl was studied in detail in absence and presence of various transition metal ions with particular affinity to Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions. With the fluorescence characteristic band centered at 307 and 315 nm for FMOC-Cl, the introduction of Fe3+ or Cu2+ ions leads to the fluorescence quenching of FMOC-Cl with different shift and intensities of two fluorescent bands. It allows us to differentiate between FMOC-Cl and Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions interaction behavior. The study on fluorescent kinetics confirms that the fluorescence quenching of FMOC-Cl with Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions is based on the formation of non-fluorescent material, that is, static quenching. Further analyses of bond lengths, Mulliken atomic charges and the frontier orbital compositions for FMOC-Cl and its complexes with Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions were carried out. The theoretical calculations prove the fluorescence quenching originates from the formation of coordination bonds between the oxygen atom of the carbonyl group of FMOC-Cl and Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions. The commercially available FMOC-Cl can be used as excellent fluorescent probe toward Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions with high sensitivity.

Simulated space weathering experiments on volatile-rich carbonaceous chondrites (CCs) have resulted in contrasting spectral behaviors (e.g. reddening vs bluing). The aim of this work is to investigate the origin of these contrasting trends by simulating space weathering on a subset of minerals found in these meteorites. We use pulsed laser irradiation to simulate micrometeorite impacts on aqueously altered minerals and observe their spectral and physical evolution as a function of irradiation time. Irradiation of the mineral lizardite, a Mg-phyllosilicate, produces a small degree of reddening and darkening, but a pronounced reduction in band depths with increasing irradiation. In comparison, irradiation of an Fe-rich aqueously altered mineral assemblage composed of cronstedtite, pyrite and siderite, produces significant darkening and band depth suppression. The spectral slopes of the Fe-rich assemblage initially redden then become bluer with increasing irradiation time. Post-irradiation analyses of the Fe-rich assemblage using scanning and transmission electron microscopy reveal the presence of micron sized carbon-rich particles that contain notable fractions of nitrogen and oxygen. Radiative transfer modeling of the Fe-rich assemblage suggests that nanometer sized metallic iron (npFe0) particles result in the initial spectral reddening of the samples, but the increasing production of micron sized carbon particles (μpC) results in the subsequent spectral bluing. The presence of npFe0 and the possible catalytic nature of cronstedtite, an Fe-rich phyllosilicate, likely promotes the synthesis of these carbon-rich, organic-like compounds. These experiments indicate that space weathering processes may enable organic synthesis reactions on the surfaces of volatile-rich asteroids. Furthermore, Mg-rich and Fe-rich aqueously altered minerals are dominant at different phases of the aqueous alteration process. Thus, the contrasting spectral slope evolution between the Fe

The effect of beryllium (Be) on the precipitation behaviors and mechanical properties of Al-Cu-Li-Mg-Zr-(Ag) alloys was investigated. The results show that adding 0.02%Be to Al-Cu-Li-Mg-Zr-(Ag) alloys, the elongation of the alloy increased without significant decrease in strength and the aging response was accelerated. In a Al-Cu-Li-Mg-Zr-(Ag) alloy, G.P. zone was formed at early aging time (2 h) and T{sub 1} and {theta}' phases were formed at peak-aging and over-aging times, while in Al-Cu-Li-Mg-Zr-(Ag)-Be alloys T{sub 1} and {theta}' phases were formed at early aging time (2 h) and the density of {theta}' phase was very low and fine T{sub 1} phases were homogeneously distributed at peak-aging and over-aging times. (orig.)

Full Text Available Multi-pass equal-channel angular pressing (EACP was applied to produce ultrafine-grained (UFG Cu-0.2wt%Mg alloy contact wire with high mechanical/electric performance, aim to overcome the catenary barrier of high-speed trains by maximizing the tension and improving the power delivery. Microstructure evolution and overall properties of the Cu-Mg alloy after different severe-plastic-deformation (SPD routes were investigated by microscopic observation, tensile and electric tests. The results show that the Cu-Mg alloy after multi-pass ECAP at 473 K obtains ultrafine grains, higher strength and desired conductivity. More passes of ECAP leads to finer grains and higher strength, but increasing ECAP temperature significantly lower the strength increment of the UFG alloy. Grain refinement via continuous SPD processing can endow the Cu-Mg alloy superior strength and good conductivity characteristics, which are advantageous to high-speed electrification railway systems.

The effect of substitutional element Zn on corrosion behavior of Mg65Cu25Gd10 glass was investigated. The amorphous structure of Mg65Cu25-xZnxGd10(x=0, 5) alloys were examined by X-ray diffractometry and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The dissolution rates of Mg65Cu25-xZnxGd10(x=0,5) metallic glasses in a 5 wt% NaCl solution with pH value of 7 were determined by a hydrogen evolution testing method. The corrosion behavior of these alloys was characterized using dipping tests with 5 wt% NaCl, in combination with electrochemical measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results show that the anti-corrosion ability of Mg65Cu25Gd10 alloy is significantly improved due to the addition of Zn. Possible mechanism responsible for the improvement is discussed.

In the present work, the influence of two-step aging treatments on hardness, electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of two high Zn-containing Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys with zinc content variation...

Magnesium ferrite, MgFe2O4, (MgFO) nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesized through sol-gel process. Subsequently, as prepared particles were coated with Zinc-oxide (ZnO) layer(s) through ultrasonication process. Thermal stability, structure and magnetic properties of as-prepared (AP) and annealed samples in the temperature range of 350 °C-1200 °C have been investigated. Structural data suggests that AP MgFO NPs and samples annealed below 500 °C in air exhibit stable ferrite phase. However, α-Fe2O3 and a small fraction of MgO secondary phases appear along with ferrite phase on annealing in the temperatures range 500 °C- 1000 °C. This results in significant changes in magnetic moment for AP NPs 0.77 μB increases to 0.92 μB for 1200 °C air annealed sample. The magnetic properties decreased at intermediate temperatures due to the presence of secondary phases. On the other hand, pure ferrite phase could be stabilized with an optimum amount of ZnO coated MgFO NPs for samples annealed in the temperature range 500 °C-1000 °C with improvement in magnetic behavior compared to that of MgFO samples.

Thin films of CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB based MTJ structure were deposited using UHV magnetron sputtering system and post annealing treatment in the temperature range from 100 to 400 °C has been carried out to understand their magnetic anisotropic properties. Though the as-deposited stack possesses in-plane magnetic anisotropy, the changeover to perpendicular magnetic anisotropy happens at temperature above 200 °C. The PMA is maximum (4.5 x 106 erg/cm3) when annealed at 300°C and the stack retains PMA till 350 °C, which is necessary in CMOS technology. The stack regains in-plane magnetic anisotropy at higher annealing temperatures due to intermixing at interfaces.

Studies of bulk MgCu2-type rare-earth iron compounds with Laves phase are reviewed.The relationship between magnetostriction and structural distortion and the consequent crystallographic method for measuring magnetostriction are introduced at first.Then we review recent progress in understanding bulk magnetostrictive Laves phase materials,especially the magnetostriction and the minimization of the anisotropy of the light rare-earth Pr-and Sm-based compounds.Finally,a summary and outlook for this kind of compounds are presented.

Al-10.8Zn-2.8Mg-1.9Cu alloy was synthesized by spray atomization and deposition technique. GP zones and age-hardening process in the alloy were investigated using high-resolution electron microscopy (HREM), selected area diffraction (SAD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. The results indicated that spray deposition process accelerated the aging kinetics of the alloy at an aging temperature of 120℃, thereby reducing the peak aging time to 16 h.GPI and GPⅡ are the two types of zones that are major precipitates for the alloy under peak-aged condition. The precipitation sequence for the alloy is also discussed.

The hot deformation behaviors and mierostructures of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Cr aluminum alloy have been studied using thermal simulation test, optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. As a result, the true stress versus true strain curves and the microstructures under various deformation conditions are obtained. The microstructures gradually incline to dynamic-recrystallization with the deformation temperature rising and the recrystallization grains refine with the decrease of deformation temperature or with raising the strain rates. The quantitative relationship between the Zener-HoUomon parameter (Z) and average recrystallization grain size in the subsequent heat treatment is set up.

CuFe2O4 nanocrystals were synthesized by the sol-gel method (SGM) and microwave method (MM) by using sucrose as a fuel. The structural, morphological, optical and magnetic properties of the products were determined and characterized in detail by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The XRD results confirmed the formation of cubic phase CuFe2O4. The formation of CuFe2O4 nano and microstructures were confirmed by HR-SEM. Photoluminescence emissions were determined by PL spectra, respectively. The relatively high saturation magnetization (78.22 emu/g) of CuFe2O4-MM shows that it is ferromagnetic and low saturation magnetization (35.98 emu/g) of CuFe2O4O-SGM confirms the super paramagnetic behavior.

We study the magnetic and electronic properties of Cu-doped Nd2 Fe14 B /NdOx systems with first-principles calculations in order to understand the roles of Cu in improving the coercivity of Nd-Fe-B permanent magnets. By analyzing the formation energies of several model systems, we find that Cu prefers to be at the interface. We conclude that the Cu addition to Nd-Fe-B magnets is a practical way of not only increasing the anisotropy of Nd atoms at the interface but also of lessening the magnetic coupling between the Nd and Fe atoms. Particularly, substituting Fe at the interface of the main phase with Cu works effectively in terms of improving the magnetic anisotropy in Nd atoms. This may explain the coercivity improvements reported recently.

We report a novel strategy for the fabrication of mesoporous silica (MS)@CuO@FeS2 composite microsphere-based anisotropic films that combine the advantages of the CuO and FeS2 materials to improve photoelectric conversion. This was achieved by aligning MS@CuO@FeS2 composite microspheres in a cross-linked gel under a homogeneous magnetic field. The MS@CuO@FeS2 composite microspheres, which were synthesized by a simple layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique together with a solvothermal method, can absorb a wide range of light and exhibit ferromagnetic properties. In addition, the resulting MS@CuO@FeS2 composite microsphere-based anisotropic film shows photoelectric anisotropy. Such systems are promising for improving the performance of solar cells.

Morphological and chemical evaluation of Fe-Mg hydrotalcite (Fe-HT) was performed using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and electron microanalysis for application as an adsorbent for water treatment. The adsorption of arsenic III (As(III)) on Fe-HT was evaluated via examination of the effect of the contact time and analysis of the adsorption isotherm. The amount of As(III) adsorbed increased slightly with increasing temperature. The results of the adsorption isotherm studies suggested that As(III) adsorption can be well described by both the Freundlich and Langmuir equations. The adsorption of As(III) on Fe-HT reached equilibrium within 24 h, and the adsorption kinetic data fit the pseudo-second-order kinetic model better than the pseudo-first-order model. The amount of As(III) present on the surface of Fe-HT increased after As(III) adsorption, and the crystalline structure of Fe-HT was maintained after adsorption of As(III). The (003) and (006) peaks in the X-ray diffraction patterns were attributed to basal reflections, and these peaks shifted from respective 2θ values of 10.86 and 21.94° to 11.12 and 22.52°, indicating exchange of As(III) with chloride ions in Fe-HT with consequent narrowing of the inter-layer spacing. Collectively, these results suggest that Fe-HT is prospectively useful for the adsorption of As(III) from aqueous solutions.

The calcination products containing Mg(II), Al(III), and Fe(III) in the brucite-like layers with varying Mg/Al/Fe molar ratios at 550°C were used as the adsorbent to remove perchlorate from aqueous solution, while the Mg/(Al-Fe) hydrotalcite compounds were synthesized by co-precipitation method at a constant pH value. The Mg/(Al-Fe) hydrotalcite compounds (HMAF) were characterized by XRD, FT-IR and TG-DTA. The characteristics showed that the layered double hydroxides structures in the HMAF were lost during calcination at 550°C, but were reconstructed subsequent to adsorption of perchlorate, indicating that the 'memory effect' appeared to play an important role in perchlorate adsorption. Batch adsorption studies were conducted under various equilibration conditions, such as molar ratios of Mg/Al/Fe, calcined temperature, different initial solution pH, adsorbent dose, initial perchlorate concentration, and co-existing anions. It was found that the existence of ferric iron in calcined Mg/(Al-Fe) hydrotalcite compound (CHMAF) was favorable to removal of perchlorate from water, and the best ratio of Mg/Al/Fe is 3:0.8:0.2 (CHMAF5%). This study demonstrated that the calcination product of Mg/(Al-Fe) hydrotalcite-like compound was a promising adsorbent for control of the perchlorate pollution in water.

NiFe film was pulse electrodeposited on conductive Cu substrate under galvanostatic mode in the presence of an ultrasonic field. The NiFe film electrodeposited was subjected to structural and surface analyses by X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, surface profiling and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The results show that the ultrasonic field has significantly improved the surface roughness, reduced the spherical grain size in the range from 490-575 nm to 90-150 nm, and increased the Ni content from 76.08% to 79.74% in the NiFe film electrodeposited.

The carbon concentration in CuO and iron was determined by isolating C. The values were in agreement with results reported in other studies. Contaminating carbon from CuO and Fe was transformed to AMS targets and measured for C-14. C-traces in CuO were shown to be the major contribution to the C-14

The effect of iron addition on the microstructure of the Cu-Zr-Al-Y glass-forming alloy was studied. Despite a high superficial cooling rate, small Fe additions (1.5 and 3 pct) induced formation of crystalline CuZr and AlCu2Zr phases on the outer layers of suction-cast rods. As the melt composition near the solid/liquid interface was depleted in Fe, the remaining melt vitrified at a relatively low cooling rate.

The impact of the MgO/Fe interface oxidation state on the electric-field-modified magnetic anisotropy in MgO/Fe has been revealed by density functional calculations. It is shown that the influence of the interface oxidation is strong enough to dominate the effect of the electric field on the magnetic anisotropy of MgO/Fe-based films. The magnetoelectric coefficients are calculated to be positive for the ideal and overoxidized MgO/Fe interface, but an abnormal negative value emerges in the underoxidized case. By analyzing the interface states based on density of states and band structures, we demonstrate that the considerably different electronic structures of the three oxidized MgO/Fe interfaces lead to the strong discrepancy in the electric-field modulation of the interfacial magnetic anisotropy. These results are of considerable interest in the area of electric-field-controlled magnetic anisotropy and switching.

Full Text Available Sintering of light aluminium alloys powder has been investigated as a way to substitute steels in automotive and aerospace industries. Premix Al-5.5Zn-2.5Mg-0.5Cu composite powder called Alumix 431D was analyzed in this research. Sintering was carried out under ultra high purity nitrogen gas and before reaching sintering temperature, green samples were delubricated at 400°C for 30 min. The powder possesses high sinterability by reaching 96% relative density at 580°C sintering temperature. Formation of liquid phase seems to support achieving high sintering density. Optimum mechanical properties also were obtained under those conditions. T6 heat treatment was done to improve the mechanical properties by formation of precipitation strengthening, and MgZn2 appears to be dominant strengthening precipitate. X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, and SEM-EDS were used to characterize powder, and sintered and heat treated samples.

Atomic emission spectroelectrochemistry (AESEC) was used to monitor the release of Al from 99.99% aluminum (1199 alloy) and Al, Mg, and Cu from 2024 Al alloy in 30 g/l NaCl electrolyte as a function of pH. The cathodic dissolution of Al was demonstrated and attributed to an increase in the pH at the interface due to the water reduction reaction. The dissolution of Mg was also observed but was a more complex function of current probably depending on the interfacial pH and the Al dissolution rate. The detachment of copper-rich particles was observed as very rapid spectroscopic emission transients (peak width < 10 ms).

Full Text Available The strength and fracture toughness of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Ti(-Sn alloys were investigated by performing tensile and plane strain fracture toughness (KIC tests. Detailed observations with optical, scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy were conducted to analyze microstructure and fracture surfaces of the alloys. The results revealed that addition of Sn refined the solution-aging grain size of matrix and reduced coarsening rate of precipitate during aging. Narrower precipitation free zones and more discontinuous distribution of grain boundary precipitates were observed to be displayed in the Sn-containing alloy. Small size second phase particles Mg2Sn were observed to form in the Sn-containing alloy and distribute in the fine dimples of fracture surface. These features of microstructure were believed to impart higher strength and fracture toughness of the Sn-containing alloy on overaging.

Mg-Fe-Cl Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have been prepared using a method involving separate nucleation and aging steps with Mg/Fe = 3. The interlayer anions readily replaced by carbonate are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and FTIR. The effects of different parameters, such as pH, contact time, concentration of dye and temperature on the capacity and adsorption mechanism of Mg-Fe-CO3-LDH in removing an anionic dye (congo red, CR) from aqueous solution were separately investigated. The results show that Mg-Fe-CO3-LDH is particularly efficient in removing CR and the dye removal increases with decreasing pH. The adsorption of CR on Mg-Fe-CO3-LDH reached equilibrium after 15 min where 100 mg/L CR was removed. The equilibrium isotherm indicates that the adsorption of CR onto Mg-Fe-CO3-LDH fits to Langmuir and Freundlich equation as well. The adsorption data obtained from the Langmuir model gave good values of the determination coefficient and the saturated adsorption capacity of Mg-Fe-CO3-LDH for CR was found to be 104.6 mg/g. The regeneration study indicates that the prepared LDH could be used for several cycles. The thermodynamic parameters have been calculated, and the adsorption process was found to be spontaneous, endothermic in nature and follows a pseudo-second-order kinetic model.

Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) remains a problem in both Al-Li and conventional Al heat treatable alloys. It has recently been found that relatively small additions (less than or approximately 1 wt-percent) of Zn can dramatically improve the SCC performance of alloy 8090 (Al-Li-Cu-Mg-Zr). Constant load time to failure experiments using cylindrical tensile samples loaded between 30 and 85 percent of TYS indicate improvements of orders of magnitude over the baseline 8090 for the Zn-containing alloys under certain aging conditions. However, the toughnesses of the alloys were noticeably degraded due to the formation of second phase particles which primarily reside on grain and subgrain boundaries. EDS revealed that these intermetallic particles were Cu and Zn rich. The particles were present in the T3 condition and were not found to be the result of quench rate, though their size and distribution were. At 5 hours at 160 C, the alloys displayed the greatest susceptibility to SCC but by 20 hours at 160 C the alloys demonstrated markedly improved TTF lifetimes. Aging past this time did not provide separable TTF results, however, the alloy toughnesses continued to worsen. Initial examination of the alloys microstructures at 5 and 20 hours indicated some changes most notably the S' and delta' distributions. A possible model by which this may occur will be explored. Polarization experiments indicated a change in the trend of E(sub BR) and passive current density at peak aging as compared to the baseline 8090. Initial pitting experiments indicated that the primary pitting mechanism in chloride environments is one occurring at constituent (Al-Fe-Cu) particles and that the Cu and Zn rich boundary precipitates posses a breakaway potential similar to that of the matrix acting neither anodic or cathodic in the first set of aerated 3.5 w/o NaCl experiments. Future work will focus on the identification of the second phase particles, evaluation of K(sub 1SCC) and plateau da/dt via

Stress corrosion cracking of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu (AA7xxx) aluminum alloys exposed to saline environments at temperatures ranging from 293 K to 353 K (20 °C to 80 °C) has been reviewed with particular attention to the influences of alloy composition and temper, and bulk and local environmental conditions. Stress corrosion crack (SCC) growth rates at room temperature for peak- and over-aged tempers in saline environments are minimized for Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys containing less than ~8 wt pct Zn when Zn/Mg ratios are ranging from 2 to 3, excess magnesium levels are less than 1 wt pct, and copper content is either less than ~0.2 wt pct or ranging from 1.3 to 2 wt pct. A minimum chloride ion concentration of ~0.01 M is required for crack growth rates to exceed those in distilled water, which insures that the local solution pH in crack-tip regions can be maintained at less than 4. Crack growth rates in saline solution without other additions gradually increase with bulk chloride ion concentrations up to around 0.6 M NaCl, whereas in solutions with sufficiently low dichromate (or chromate), inhibitor additions are insensitive to the bulk chloride concentration and are typically at least double those observed without the additions. DCB specimens, fatigue pre-cracked in air before immersion in a saline environment, show an initial period with no detectible crack growth, followed by crack growth at the distilled water rate, and then transition to a higher crack growth rate typical of region 2 crack growth in the saline environment. Time spent in each stage depends on the type of pre-crack ("pop-in" vs fatigue), applied stress intensity factor, alloy chemistry, bulk environment, and, if applied, the external polarization. Apparent activation energies ( E a) for SCC growth in Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys exposed to 0.6 M NaCl over the temperatures ranging from 293 K to 353 K (20 °C to 80 °C) for under-, peak-, and over-aged low-copper-containing alloys (alloys (>~0.8 wt pct), they are typically